Benedum Center
April 1, 4, 6
7 p.m., 8 p.m., 2 p.m.
Website
One of the world’s most cherished operas is coming to life on a local stage. Continuing its 75th anniversary season, Pittsburgh Opera presents La Bohème, the timeless tale of Bohemian friends struggling with poverty and illness in 1830s Paris. Via the work’s enduring romance, tragedy and music, opera-goers will be transported to a garret in Paris’ Latin Quarter, where the destitute painter Marcello and poet Rodolfo seek warmth on Christmas Eve by burning pages from the writer’s latest drama. Meanwhile, their roommates Colline, a philosopher, and Schaunard, a musician, bring food, fuel and money, and their landlord Benoit comes to collect rent. A cast of neighborhood characters, friends and lovers add to the mix, as romance, survival, friendship, jealousy and loneliness ensue amidst soaring music.
Featuring music by Giacomo Puccini and libretto by Luigi Illica, the opera in four acts made its world premiere in 1896, conducted by Arturo Toscanini at Teatro Regi in Turin, Italy. La bohème has gone on to become one of the most frequently performed operas worldwide. A roster of outstanding singers leads Pittsburgh Opera’s production, which is anchored by a dazzling set designed by Tony Award-winner Michael Yeargan. Music director Antony Walker returns to conduct the Pittsburgh Opera Orchestra and Chorus. Making her company debut and starring as Mimí is award-winning soprano Leah Crocetto, recipient of the 2010 Metropolitan National Council Auditions Grand Finals honor. The role of Rodolfo is shared by David Lomelí and Eric Barry, also making his company debut. Pittsburgh Opera also welcomes Troy Cook, in his company debut as Marcello, while Pittsburgher Sari Gruber returns as Musetta. Additional Pittsburghers in the cast include Kevin Glavin, in the hilarious dual role of Benoit/Alcindoro, and Dimitrie Lazich, who debuts as Schaunard. Resident artist Phillip Gay appears as Colline.
Want to meet the stars? All ticket holders for the April 1st performance are invited to meet the artists immediately following the opera, in the Benedum’s Lower Lobby.
