Grand opening of Lyric Opera's 2011-2012 season
It’s fall again, and for me, that means it’s time for another breathtaking season of opera!
On Oct. 1, Russian Pointe team members Debbie Chanel, Sasha Danilishen and I attended the opening of The Lyric Opera of Chicago’s 2011-2012 season, which started with a lavish gala and ended with a heartwarming rendition of “The Tales of Hoffman” by Jacques Offenbach.
It was exhilarating to walk down the red carpet and enter the building to see a roomful of people dressed up and excited for the show. I was very pleasantly surprised to see so many young patrons in attendance. I’m pleased that more young people are interested in opera and hope they will continue to be the next generation of donors.
After dinner, we couldn’t wait to see “The Tales of Hoffman,” an opera that has not been performed at the Lyric since 1982.
“Hoffman” is the story of a poet who travels the world in search of the perfect woman. He meets four different women — a mechanical doll, a soprano who sings herself to death, a heartless courtesan, and an opera diva ― and each time his love affair ends tragically.
Filled with hilarious scenes and slapstick comedy, “Hoffman” is a delight. But the story is also touching, romantic, and sad, too. The singers were outstanding, and I especially loved the set, which featured soaring windows in a 19th century train station and a very authentic-looking train.
Next up at the Lyric will be Boris Godunov, opening Nov. 7. Friends of Russian Pointe can receive a 20 percent discount on main floor tickets for Monday through Friday shows by using the code “RPBORIS.” Hope to see you there!