Opera Cleveland's 2010-2011 season begins in dramatic style this weekend at the State Theatre with Gaetano Donizetti's Lucia di Lammermoor, the story of a woman so torn between her lover and the man she is forced to marry that she goes mad. First performed at Naples' Teatro San Carlo in September 1835, the Opera Cleveland production of Lucia di Lammermoor marks the return of director Tomer Zvulun, who last thrilled audiences with the troupe's 2008 performance of La bohème.
As arts organizations attempt to overcome a difficult economy, opera in particular still struggles to break down popular misconceptions about the art form. This past weekend, Opera Cleveland presented a free opera sampler event, featuring a dress rehearsal performance, an opportunity to meet artistic director and conductor Dean Williamson, refreshments and exclusive discounts for upcoming performances.
"If you haven't gone to an opera before, this production of Lucia is a fantastic introduction," says Williamson. "It gives you everything live theater gives you, and more." Audiences might be surprised to see the use of digital video, added by a theatrical projection designer to provide depth and moving images to the stage sets. "Visually, there's always something to look at," says Williamson, "from the 1930s costumes to the immense set to the digital video."
Reaching patrons with smaller disposable incomes and tight schedules is a challenge, one that Opera Cleveland is meeting head-on with a first-class artistic team. "Our director is on staff at The Metropolitan Opera, and our lighting designer was just nominated for a Tony Award," says Williamson. "Along with our set designer and projection designer, they have built this show from scratch for Opera Cleveland."
For more information on Lucia di Lammermoor, including a cast list and synopsis, visit Opera Cleveland's website. Tickets can be purchased through PlayhouseSquare.
