The Lyric and Met’s upcoming seasons demonstrate a classic problem in opera programming: repetitive repertoire classics commandeer the schedule.
Both companies offer Madame Butterfly, Die Fledermaus, and Rusalka (a 2014 Met: Live in HD selection). The Lyric’s upcoming Otello, Parsifal, and La Clemenza di Tito were all part of Met: Live in HDthis season, and La Traviata and The Barber of Seville at the Lyric were both performed this year at the Met, previously at movie broadcasts, and last appeared at Lyric in 2007-2008.
Many companies rely upon these “favorite” operas to ensure ticket sales. However, considering the vast number of recordings of these classics, this strategy seems dangerous as passionate fans might prefer recordings of their favorite Boheme or Traviata over yet another production.
One trend to combat this is regietheater: resetting these classic operas in new settings. This season, the Met performed Rigoletto set in 1960s Las Vegas which received positive reviews from the winners of PN’s giveaway. The Met audience also saw the infamous Salzburg Traviata with an all-male chorus and what opera-bloggers dubbed “Ikea furniture”. This trend is more prevalent in Europe, including a production of Tosca set in Nazi Germany.
Thanks to the generosity of Fathom Events, PN readers can see a more moderate example of regietheater in the live movie broadcast of Handel’s Giulio Cesare at 11AM, Apr. 27 at the Regal Canter 17 in Warrenville. This production, which appeared at the Lyric in 2008, is set in post-colonial England. To enter to win tickets, please email emilyriederer@gmail.com with your name and address. For a complete schedule of the Met: Live in HD season, visit www.FathomEvents.com.
