Welcome back to an exciting season of beautiful singing and storytelling. We are celebrating Italy in all its operatic splendor throughout the year. First, one of the first operas every written- Monteverdi's Poppea- tells the story of the Emperor Nero and his insatiable passion for his mistress Poppea. Is Poppea's coronation the beginning of the end for Rome? A timeless story of sex, politics, and betrayal, in an exciting modern setting.
Second, the most famous Italian opera composer of all time- Giuseppe Verdi- was a potent symbol of a unified Italy. Hundreds of thousands of people took to the streets for his funeral. His operas and his legacy are larger than life, and the Oratorio Society and University of Illinois Symphony Orchestra are joining us to raise the roof with the most beloved choruses, overtures, and scenes from grand Italian Opera.
Finally, a tribute to Italy from musical theatre royalty- Richard Rodgers' grandson Adam Guettel has written a stunning work about Americans abroad- a mother and daughter in Florence in the 1950s, discovering love and independence. Winner of the 2005 Tony Awards for best musical score, The Light in the Piazza is beautiful.
We are so grateful that you share our love of sung theatre in all of its forms- last year we broke attendance records again! We continue to strive for excellence artistically and educationally and couldn't do what we do without your support. Our mainstage productions, scenes programs, community outreach, and development of new works build the artists of tomorrow, and nurturing their talent is at the center of our mission. Talent falls on people of all backgrounds and socioeconomic circumstances. Please continue to be generous as we build a bright Lyric future.
Second, the most famous Italian opera composer of all time- Giuseppe Verdi- was a potent symbol of a unified Italy. Hundreds of thousands of people took to the streets for his funeral. His operas and his legacy are larger than life, and the Oratorio Society and University of Illinois Symphony Orchestra are joining us to raise the roof with the most beloved choruses, overtures, and scenes from grand Italian Opera.
Finally, a tribute to Italy from musical theatre royalty- Richard Rodgers' grandson Adam Guettel has written a stunning work about Americans abroad- a mother and daughter in Florence in the 1950s, discovering love and independence. Winner of the 2005 Tony Awards for best musical score, The Light in the Piazza is beautiful.
We are so grateful that you share our love of sung theatre in all of its forms- last year we broke attendance records again! We continue to strive for excellence artistically and educationally and couldn't do what we do without your support. Our mainstage productions, scenes programs, community outreach, and development of new works build the artists of tomorrow, and nurturing their talent is at the center of our mission. Talent falls on people of all backgrounds and socioeconomic circumstances. Please continue to be generous as we build a bright Lyric future.