Singer

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of opera this summer at The Glimmerglass Festival with the 2024 production of Francesco Cavalli's "La Calisto." This captivating performance, under the artistic and general direction of Rob Ainsley, brings to life a sparkling early opera that masterfully combines comedy, pathos, gods, mortals, and even a few rutting satyrs. Ainsley's 2013 realization of the score expands Cavalli’s original continuo and strings with original parts for winds and brass, promising a rich and immersive auditory experience.

"La Calisto" weaves together two myths of transformation, delivering a hilarious caper filled with mistaken identities, raunchy trysts, and celestial magic. Set in the midst of Cavalli's career, the opera was designed to entertain and amuse the discerning Venetian public. This bold take on the classic opera will be conducted by Ainsley, directed by Mo Zhou, and choreographed by Eric Sean Fogel, featuring set design by Charlie Corcoran, costume design by Carlos Soto, and lighting design by Amith Chandrashaker.

The opera, sung in Italian with projected English text, runs for approximately 2 hours and 25 minutes. Performances are scheduled from July 23 to August 17, 2024, offering multiple opportunities to experience this magnificent production.

The story follows Jove's attempts to seduce the beautiful nymph Calisto, a follower of the goddess Diana who has taken a vow of chastity. The plot thickens with mistaken identities, unrequited loves, and divine interventions, leading to unexpected transformations and celestial destinies.

Generously sponsored by Allison and W. Keyes Hill-Edgar, the cast features Emilie Kealani as Calisto, Taylor Raven as Diana/Jove as Diana, Eve Gigliotti as Juno, Craig Irvin as Jove, and a talented ensemble that brings this mythological world to life.

Don't miss your chance to be part of this myth, mystery, and adventure at The Glimmerglass Festival. Secure your tickets now for a summer filled with unforgettable opera experiences.

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La Calisto

The Glimmerglass Festival

The Glimmerglass Festival proudly presents "Elizabeth Cree," a modern operatic masterpiece by Kevin Puts and Mark Campbell, as a highlight of its 2024 season. Directed by Alison Moritz and featuring the 2024 Artist-in-Residence Tara Erraught in the title role, this new production promises to captivate audiences with its suspenseful and theatrical narrative. Set against the backdrop of 1880s London, the opera intertwines the trial of Elizabeth Cree for her husband's poisoning, a series of brutal murders by a Jack the Ripper-style killer, the vibrant world of an English music hall, and guest appearances by Victorian Age luminaries.

"Elizabeth Cree" is a unique blend of factual and fictive elements, historical and imaginary, originally scored for a small chamber ensemble but performed at Glimmerglass with an expanded string complement. The opera is sung in English with projected English text, ensuring accessibility for all audience members. With a runtime of 1 hour and 40 minutes without an intermission, the performances are scheduled from July 28 to August 20, 2024.

The opera's rich narrative is brought to life by a talented cast, including Christian Mark Gibbs as Dan Leno, John Chest as John Cree, Elizabeth Sutphen as Aveline Mortimer, and Schyler Vargas as Inspector Kildare, among others. The production is generously sponsored by Jacqueline B. Mars, with additional support from The Aaron Copland Fund for Music, Inc.

Set in a world where narratives of personal struggle, mystery, and historical intrigue collide, "Elizabeth Cree" offers a compelling exploration of identity, illusion, and the pursuit of truth. Don't miss the opportunity to experience this thrilling work at The Glimmerglass Festival. Tickets and ticket packages are available now for what promises to be a highlight of the summer's cultural calendar.

Schyler Vargas

Baritone

Events

Jul 23 - Aug 17, 2024

La Calisto · Glimmerglass Festival

Jul 28 - Aug 20, 2024

Elizabeth Cree · Glimmerglass Festival

Future and recently performed repertoire

Mercury in La Calisto by Cavalli

Glimmerglass Festival

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