March 06, 2019

The Magic Flute Has Wow Power

On December 10, Lyric opened its first all-new production of Mozart’s The Magic Flute in over 30 years. Clearly, Chicago audiences were hungry for this new imagining of everyone’s best first opera, as the reviews are sensational.  This operatic fairy tale runs through January 27, so plan to enjoy the production that has critics talking about every aspect – from artists to set to director to the outstanding Lyric Opera Orchestra and Chorus:

Andrew Staples, Ann Toomey, Annie Rosen, Lauren Decker, Adam Plachetka

“Brimming with wit, magic and the humanistic ideals of virtue, hope and love” – Chicago Sun-Times

“Surrender to the power and elegance of the musical performance” – Chicago Tribune

“A delightful brew of youthful energy, spontaneity and imagination” – Musical America

“Pure delight” – Splash Magazine

The Magic Flute pours on the vocal brilliance” – Classical Voice North America

Andrew Staples, Christof Fischesser, Christiane Karg

"​What makes this show giftable is its extended January run. Internationally renowned tenor Matthew Polenzani, a Lyric favorite, will take over the role of Prince Tamino for later performances, succeeding the endearing British tenor Andrew Staples, who stars through Jan. 8. Otherwise the cast, conductor and chorus — all of it — is the same​" – Chicago on the Aisle​

Ann Toomey, Lauren Decker, Annie Rosen

You’ll have two more opportunities to experience Andrew Staples's acclaimed performance as Prince Tamino on January 6 and 8, or you can choose to see Lyric favorite Matthew Polenzani take on the role in performances January 12 – 27.  Choose your prince and secure your date at Lyric.

Kathryn Lewek

New Lyric Opera production of Mozart’s The Magic Flute generously made possible by

The Negaunee Foundation

Randy L. and Melvin R. Berlin

Roberta L. and Robert J. Washlow

Photos: Andrew Cioffi, Todd Rosenberg