The Fort Worth Opera will bring its 79th season to a close with a performance of Rossini’s “La Cenerentola.” The opera is scheduled to take the stage at Bass Performance Hall on April 25 and 27, 2025, marking the company’s return to a grand, full-scale production at this renowned venue for the first time since 2019.
Angela Turner Wilson, the General & Artistic Director, expressed her excitement in a recent statement: “This is an exhilarating milestone for Fort Worth Opera. ‘La Cenerentola’ perfectly combines humor, romance, dazzling vocal displays, and vibrant theatrical energy. We’re thrilled to showcase it with stunning sets, costumes, and the Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra, which will breathe life into Rossini’s masterful score amidst the grandeur of Bass Performance Hall.”
She went on to say, “This version of Cinderella celebrates the triumph of kindness and genuine hearts. The romance between Angelina and her Prince feels authentic and profound, blossoming well before the iconic ball. Yet the opera also delivers plenty of laughs with its outrageous characters, lavish scenery, comical moments, and Rossini’s impeccable music.”
The production is helmed by director and choreographer Candace Evans, based in New York and Dallas, with Christian Capocaccia taking the baton as conductor.
The lineup features mezzo-soprano Stephanie Doche in the role of Angelina, alongside tenor Victor Ryan Robertson as Prince Ramiro. Joining them are performers Adelmo Guidarelli, Efraín Solís, Eric McKeever, Hannah Madeleine Goodman, and Mariam Mouwad, rounding out the talented cast.
Tickets for the performances of “La Cenerentola” at Bass Performance Hall are already generating buzz, with opera enthusiasts eager to experience this fresh take on Rossini’s beloved work. The Fort Worth Opera has a long-standing tradition of delivering high-quality productions, and this season finale promises to uphold that legacy with its blend of musical excellence and theatrical flair.
Candace Evans, known for her innovative staging and attention to detail, brings a unique vision to the opera, ensuring that the story resonates with modern audiences while honoring its classic roots. Meanwhile, conductor Christian Capocaccia will guide the Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra through Rossini’s intricate and lively score, highlighting the composer’s signature blend of elegance and playfulness.
For those unfamiliar with the opera, “La Cenerentola” offers a twist on the traditional Cinderella tale. Unlike the familiar fairy tale, this version skips the glass slipper and instead focuses on Angelina’s wit, resilience, and compassion as she navigates her journey to love and redemption. The production’s rich costumes and elaborate sets will transport audiences into a world of opulence and charm, amplifying the emotional depth and comedic brilliance of the story.
The Fort Worth Opera’s return to Bass Performance Hall after a six-year hiatus for a full-scale show is a testament to the company’s commitment to revitalizing the art form in the region. With a stellar cast, a top-tier creative team, and the iconic venue as its backdrop, this rendition of “La Cenerentola” is poised to be a memorable highlight of the 2025 cultural calendar.
