86^th Season Slightly Curtailed But Attractive

Pittsburgh Opera today announced the lineup for their upcoming 2024-25 season, one that differs in some respects from recent offerings, but one that includes four tried and trues – one of which is a double-bill to be produced for the first time this century. The operas will be:

Tosca  –

Cavalleria Rusticana/Pagliacci –

Armida –

Madama Butterfly –  

Woman With Eyes Closed –

While some may say at first glance it appears that only five productions will be offered instead of the usual six, technically the famous Cavalleria Rusticana and Pagliacci pairing will indeed be two separate works. But since both operas will be one event, an argument might be made. But whoever argued over opera? The well-known “opera twins” will be especially welcomed. Cavalleria Rusticana is an hour or so of the most beautiful music ever composed, and will feature Eve Gigliotti and Rafael Davila in the leading roles. Pagliacci features one of the most famous tenor arias in the operatic catalog, which will be sung by Jonathan Burton, with Caitlin Gotimer making what will be a much welcomed return to the Benedum stage. Antony Walker will conduct both operas. At this time, in fact, it seems Mr. Walker will conduct the entire season.

Tosca can be counted on to draw a crowd, and the opening night will feature Ana Maria Martinez making her Pittsburgh Opera debut in the title role. Little need be said of Puccini’s other work in the lineup, Madama Butterfly. Despite having one of the most politically incorrect librettos in modern times, the opera endures, and Karah Son, also a newcomer to the local stage, will sing the title role.

The new production (and first Pittsburgh Opera performances) of Haydn’s Armida is an event that promises much, as the Resident Artist performances at the CAPA always do. The cast will include Lauryn Davis, Shavon Lloyd, Fran Daniel Laucerica, Audrey Welsh, Matthew Soibelman and Shannon Crowley. Woman With Eyes Closed, music by  award-winning Jennifer Higdon, will close out the season at the Bitz Opera Factory. The production will be a world premiere and the first time (we can recall) that a season ended at this venue.

As usual, special events, such as the 69th Annual Diamond Horseshoe Celebration and Maecenas XL, will take place over the course of the season, with many low-cost and free events offered as well.

For much more information about the operas and the season’s events, visit Pittsburgh Opera. It’s never too early to look forward to opera and all the trimings.

Categories: Feature, Our Posts, Season Listings, Show Previews

Tags: 69th Annual Diamond Horseshoe Celebration, Ana Maria Martinez, Antony Walker, Armida, Audrey Welsh, Benedum Center, Bitz Opera Factory, Caitlin Gotimer, CAPA Theater, Cavalleria Rusticana, Eve Gigliotti, Fran Daniel Laucerica, Giacomo Puccini, Jennifer Higdon, Jonathan Burton, Joseph Haydn, Karah Son, Lauryn Davis, Madama Butterfly, Maecenas XL, Matthew Soibelman, Pagliacci, Pietro Mascagni, Pittsburgh Opera, Rafael Davila, Ruggero Leoncavallo, Shannon Crowley, Shavon Lloyd, Tosca, Woman With Eyes Closed