The renowned Opera Philadelphia has announced its upcoming presentation of Rossini's celebrated work "Il viaggio a Reims," marking a significant milestone in the company's artistic calendar. This ambitious production, helmed by the acclaimed European director Damiano Michieletto, will grace the stage of the historic Academy of Music across four carefully scheduled performances on Sept. 19, 21, 26, and 28.
The announcement carries special significance as it launches Opera Philadelphia's momentous 50th Anniversary Season, with General Director Anthony Roth Costanzo expressing his enthusiasm for this particular choice of repertoire. In his official comments, Costanzo characterized the opera as "an explosion of sparkling bravura energy," emphasizing the extraordinary musical forces assembled for this production. Under the masterful direction of conductor Corrado Rovaris, the company's exceptional orchestra, chorus, and an impressive ensemble of 17 starring performers will bring this effervescent work to life, creating what Costanzo anticipates will be a thoroughly joyful experience for audiences.
The selection of Damiano Michieletto as director represents a particularly noteworthy achievement for Opera Philadelphia, as this production will mark the American debut of the innovative Italian director who has garnered widespread acclaim throughout European opera houses. Costanzo praised Michieletto's "wildly creative" approach and noted how the director's "revered" status in Europe stems from his remarkable ingenuity in staging opera. The General Director expressed confidence that Michieletto's characteristic blend of "hilarity and intricacy" in this grand staging will create the perfect celebratory atmosphere to inaugurate their landmark anniversary season.
Maestro Corrado Rovaris, who will conduct these performances, shared his own perspective on the musical richness of this particular Rossini opera. He described "Il viaggio a Reims" as representing "one of the most inspired titles of Rossini's operas," highlighting the composer's exceptional achievement in crafting a score that demonstrates remarkable versatility. Rovaris noted how Rossini's composition is distinguished by its "brilliant rhythmic momentum" and the way it employs "the most diverse musical possibilities" to illuminate the various dramatic situations presented in the libretto.
The conductor emphasized how Rossini masterfully exploits the opportunities presented by such an extensive cast, creating what he describes as "a series of musical gems that follow one after the other." This structure, according to Rovaris, challenges each of the protagonists to demonstrate their complete range of "technical and interpretative skills," ultimately serving to "celebrate at the highest level the joy of his music."
The production will feature an exceptional roster of vocal talent, with soprano Emilie Kealani taking on the role of Corinna, while mezzo-soprano Katherine Beck will portray the Marchese Melibea. The cast also includes soprano Lindsey Reynolds as the Contessa di Folleville and soprano Brenda Rae in the role of Madama Cortese. Among the male principals, baritone Daniel Belcher will perform as Il Barone di Trombonok, tenor Alasdair Kent will appear as Il Conte di Libenskof, and bass Scott Conner will take on the character of Lord Sidney.
The extensive ensemble continues with bass-baritone Ben Brady cast as Don Profondo, tenor Minghao Liu as Cavalier Belfiore, and baritone Alex DeSocio performing the role of Don Alvaro. Additional cast members include bass Anthony Reed as Don Prudenzio, tenor Fran Daniel Laucerica as Don Luigino, and baritone Brandon Bell in the role of Antonion. The female ensemble is completed by mezzo-soprano Sarah Scofield as Maddalena, while tenor Hongrui Ren will take on the dual role of Zefirino/Gelsomino. Soprano Maya Mor Mitrani will portray Modestina, and soprano Olivia Prendergast will perform as Delia.
This remarkable gathering of international talent, combined with Michieletto's innovative directorial vision and Rovaris's distinguished musical leadership, promises to create a truly memorable operatic experience that will appropriately launch Opera Philadelphia's golden anniversary celebrations.
