Florentine Opera Company General Director William Florescu announced today the upcoming 2008-2009 season: Puccini's heartbreakingly beautiful classic, Madama Butterfly; Handel's Baroque drama Semele, and Mozart's popular comedic masterpiece, The Magic Flute.
Distinctive features of the Florentine's 75th anniversary season include a return to the historic Pabst Theater for Semele, the first- ever presentation of a Baroque opera in the company's history, and an all-new, uniquely Florentine production of The Magic Flute. Two additional special events, the debut of the Florentine Opera Studio Artists in October and a 75th Anniversary Diamond Spectacular concert in May of 2009 round out the season.
"As we celebrate this milestone anniversary and commemorate our achievements over the past 75 years, we are also thrilled to offer a season that looks to the future. Our 2008- 2009 season is packed with powerful performances, first-ever events and the world-class artistry that has become a hallmark of Florentine productions," remarked Florescu. The curtain opens on Madama Butterfly, which promises all the drama, grandeur and artistry that has delighted Florentine audiences throughout its history. In celebration of Giacomo Puccini's 150th birthday, the Florentine Opera proudly presents this renowned classic of clashing cultures and innocence destroyed.
In its second offering of the season, the Florentine will stage its first-ever production of Handel's Semele. This tale of the thunderous consequences that occur when gods and goddesses mix with mortals is set to Handel's soaring Baroque melodies. Baroque expert Jane Glover, Music Director of Chicago's Music of the Baroque, will bring the melodious score to life.
An all-new, all-Florentine production of Mozart's The Magic Flute provides an exciting third act to this landmark season. General Director William Florescu will serve as Stage Director, while Conductor Joseph Rescigno directs members of the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra for his 27th season. Noele Stollmack, the Florentine's Director of Design and Production, will create the set and lighting design. These in-house talents— combined with a stellar onstage cast—create an exciting new exploration of Mozart's final opera.
THE 2008-2009 SEASON AT A GLANCE
Madama Butterfly By Giacomo Puccini
November 21, 22 & 23, 2008
Semele By George Frideric Handel
February 27, 28 & March 1, 2009
The Magic Flute By Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
April 17, 18 & 19, 2009
SPECIAL EVENTS
Florentine Opera Studio Artists Concert
Sunday, October 19, 2008–2:30pm
75th Anniversary Diamond Spectacular Concert
Saturday, May 23, 2009–7:30pm -- www.florentineopera.org
Comment and add to the story without registration, but keep the comments meaningful please. Links are not accepted.
