March 06, 2019

They Said What? Praise for The Marriage of Figaro

Did the stars align for Lyric’s all-new production of Mozart’s The Marriage of Figaro? It certainly had all the right ingredients, with Chicago Shakespeare Theater’s brilliant artistic director Barbara Gaines at the helm, stunning new sets, and sumptuous new costumes, plus Lyric debuts for three major stars – Adam Plachetka as Figaro, Christiane Karg as Susanna, and Rachel Frenkel as Cherubino. Rather than subject you to our slightly-biased staff opinions, we thought we’d let the critics give you the straight story.  You can also get a glimpse of the Lyric production here:

Mozart's THE MARRIAGE OF FIGARO at Lyric Opera of Chicago
 

“A joyous celebration of life and love.” – Chicago Tribune 

“…an ensemble cast that meshed beautifully.” – Musical America 

“Highly Recommended.” – Stage and Cinema

“I can’t recall when I have enjoyed a Marriage of Figaro this much.  And an unusually compelling Lyric Opera season awaits.” – John von Rhein/Chicago Tribune 

“Conductor Henrik Nánási drives the score with energy and panache, while Chicago Shakespeare Theater artistic director Barbara Gaines brings freshness and creativity to this new production commissioned by Lyric Opera General Director Anthony Freud.” – Stage and Cinema

Praise for the “Extravagant, brilliantly colored, Milan-runway-style costumes.” – Chicago Tribune

“The entire cast throws themselves whole-heartedly into Gaines’ whirlwind world.” – New City

“An elaborate mating ritual of human beings with frailties a modern audience can relate to directly.”  – Chicago Tribune

“This Figaro represents a new and welcome generation of Mozart opera singers.” – Chicago Tribune

There’s still time to enjoy this comedic masterpiece of mistaken identities, morals, and manners with the full forces of the Lyric Opera Orchestra and Chorus.  Performances are October 6, 9, 15, 18, 21 (2 pm) and the final performance on October 24.  

Hurry, seats are limited and demand is high.  We want to ensure you have your choice of the best seats at the best price.

New Lyric Opera production generously made possible by The Negaunee Foundation, the Abbott Fund, Randy L. and Melvin R. Berlin, Exelon, JPMorgan Chase & Co., and Sylvia Neil and Daniel Fischel.

Photos: Todd Rosenberg, Michael Brosilow