Don Giovanni, Lyric Opera, Chicago By Andrew Patner Published: September 21 2004 03:00 | Last updated: September 21 2004 03:00 A half century ago, a trio of twentysomething operaphiles offered Chicago what they dubbed a "calling card" production of Mozart's...
Don Giovanni, Lyric Opera, Chicago
By Andrew Patner
Published: September 21 2004 03:00 | Last updated: September 21 2004 03:00
A half century ago, a trio of twentysomething operaphiles offered Chicago what they dubbed a "calling card" production of Mozart's Don Giovanni to see if they might bring full operatic seasons back to the city.
These chance-takers were no slouches. In their first full season, they presented the American debut of one Maria Callas. Fifty years on, the Lyric Opera reigns as one of the world's leading companies.
To revisit Mozart's Don for their anniversary season, Lyric has pulled out all the casting stops - enticing Welsh superstar bass-baritone Bryn Terfel to give one more shot at the title role despite his oft-stated wish to stick with Leporello from now on.
[Remainder of article here (subcription to FT Online required)]