Get ready for an unforgettable night of drama, passion, and tragedy!
Pacific Opera Victoria is set to present Giuseppe Verdi’s Rigoletto at Victoria’s Royal Theatre, opening on Wednesday, April 23rd.
This powerful opera, centered on themes of love, betrayal, and revenge, will take the stage for a limited run, with four performances from April 23rd to 29th.
Set against the backdrop of Victorian England, the opera delves into the emotional journey of Rigoletto, a servant who becomes consumed by a thirst for vengeance, and the tragic consequences that follow.
“Verdi’s Rigoletto is a classic of the operatic world that will introduce singers Grant Youngblood, Sarah Dufresne, and Matthew Pearce to Pacific Opera audiences,” said Pacific Opera Artistic Director, Brenna Corner.
“It is grand opera which at its heart is the story of a father and his daughter, and the terrible costs paid by the ones we love when we seek revenge.”
This performance marks Dufresne’s Pacific Opera debut as Gilda, the innocent daughter caught in a web of manipulation and deceit.
She has been praised for her style and elegance, and has already made a name for herself on prestigious stages like Opéra de Montréal and Bayerische Staatsoper.
Youngblood will bring his acclaimed portrayal of Rigoletto to the Royal Theatre! Having already performed the role with Opera Delaware and Opera Baltimore, Youngblood’s voice and stage presence is sure to garner additional rave reviews.
In fact, OperaGene called his performance “a standout” and noted the beauty and emotional depth of his interpretation.
Well-known Canadian mezzo-soprano Marion Newman will be playing Maddalena, whose versatility spans from Baroque to contemporary opera.
View this post on Instagram
The production is conducted by Victoria’s own Robert Tweten, who makes his Pacific Opera debut with this performance, and steps into the role with a wealth of experience.
Behind the scenes, renowned local director Glynis Leyshon leads the artistic team, having directed over 30 productions for Pacific Opera Victoria, including Die Walküre and The Birds.
The set design, created by James Rotondo, along with the costumes by Pam Johnson, promise to bring Verdi’s world to life in a visually breathtaking way. The lighting design by Gerald King will create an emotionally intense atmosphere!
Ticket prices vary by seat selection, but they start at $35. To make opera accessible to a wider audience, Pacific Opera is offering $15 tickets for youth under 18 and preview tickets for students and community groups.
This opera is recommended for ages 12 and up.
Don’t miss your chance to experience this timeless masterpiece on stage!
Pacific Opera Victoria: ‘Rigoletto’
- Where: Royal Theatre, 805 Broughton Street
- When: Wednesday, April 23rd to Tuesday, April 29th—showtimes vary
