Lyric Opera of Chicago’s revival of Giuseppe Verdi’s Rigoletto is a rock-solid production that will satisfy the most discriminating opera lover and delight newcomers. In an era in which there is a penchant for modernizing opera’s enduring standards, it’s refreshing to see a production in which great singing and superb stagecraft are the central components. From the moment Music Director and Conductor Enrique Mazola took the podium, it was apparent that this would be an Opening Night to remember. Lyric’s Rigoletto opened the 2024-25 season and continues through Sunday, Oct. 6. Visit lyricopera.org for more information.
Igor Golovatenko shines in the title role of Rigoletto, the court jester who is both a fool and perhaps the wisest man in the room. His baritone voice embodies the pathos of his character while lending it a heft and dignity that rises far above his humble stature. Javier Camarena, a current Ryan Opera Center member in his Lyric debut, is not amused as the Duke of Mantua, and uses his ringing tenor voice to express his disdain.
The real standout of the night is Mane Galoyan as Rigoletto’s angelic daughter Gilda. She is another Ryan Opera Center member in her Lyric debut. Her acting and singing are superb. This is the type of talent that opera lovers long to see and Galoyan delivered in grand style. Her luxurious voice rang to the farthest reachers of the cavernous Ardis Krainick Theatre to the delight of the audience.
No opera is complete without a mesmerizing villain and Solomon Howard filled the bill and more as the assassin Sparafucile. Supporting cast members were also notable. Soprano Adia Evans in her Lyric debut as Countess Ceprano and Maire Therese Carmack as Giovanna helped to round out the superb cast.
Director Mary Birnbaum made an impressive Lyric Opera debut in this shimmering production. Set Designer Robert Innes Hopkins and Costume Designer Jane Greenwood created a timeless universe of lavish splendor enhanced by the work of Lighting Designer Duane Schuler. Chorus director Michael Black made the Lyric Opera Chorus a vital element of this superb production.
Lyric Opera of Chicago’s Rigoletto continues through Sunday, Oct. 6. It is an absolute must for opera lovers. For those who don’t necessarily like opera, it’s a chance to discover a new favorite. visit lyric opera.org. for more information
