### Event Description: Manon Lescaut by Giacomo Puccini

#### Overview
The Opera Festival of Chicago proudly presents Giacomo Puccini’s celebrated opera, *Manon Lescaut*. Based on Abbé Prévost’s novel, this tragic tale explores Manon’s internal conflict between love and luxury. Premiered in 1893, *Manon Lescaut* remains a timeless masterpiece in the operatic repertoire.

#### Performance Details
- **Dates and Times:**
  - **Thursday, June 27, 2024, at 7:30 PM**
  - **Saturday, June 29, 2024, at 7:30 PM**
  - **Sunday, June 30, 2024, at 2:00 PM**
- **Venue:** Cahn Auditorium, 600 Emerson St, Evanston, IL 60201
- **Running Time:** 120 minutes with a 15-minute intermission
- **Language:** Performed in Italian with English supertitles
- **Tickets:** $25 - $125

#### Cast and Crew
- **Conductor:** Emanuele Andrizzi
- **Director:** Sasha Gerritson
- **Chorus Master:** Reid Taylor
- **Featuring:**
  - **Maria Natale** (Manon Lescaut - June 27 & 30)
  - **Jessica Sandidge** (Manon Lescaut - June 29)
  - **Eric Dubin** (Lescaut)
  - **Matthew White** (Chevalier Renato des Grieux - June 27 & 30)
  - **Benjamin Werley** (Chevalier Renato des Grieux - June 29)
  - **Anthony Reed** (Geronte di Ravoir)
  - **Reuben Lillie** (Edmondo)
  - **David Greene** (Dance Master/Lamplighter)
  - **Aurelien Mangwa** (Sergeant at Arms)
  - **Chris Filipowicz** (Innkeeper L’Oeste)
  - **Kevin Wheatle** (Naval Captain)
  - **Floriana Bivona** (Wig Maker)
  - **Lauryn Nelson** (Solo Madrigal Singer)
  - **Gisella Milla, Elise Hurwitz, Vera Schmitz, Carmen Vizin** (Quartet madrigal singers)

#### Additional Information
- **Libretto by:** Luigi Illica, Marco Praga, and Domenico Oliva
- **Orchestra and Chorus:** Opera Festival of Chicago Orchestra & Chorus

#### Venue Directions
- **Google Maps Directions:** [Cahn Auditorium](https://maps.google.com/?q=600+Emerson+St,+Evanston,+IL+60201)

#### Ticket Purchase
- **Purchase Tickets:** [Link to Ticket Purchase](#)

Join us for an unforgettable evening of passion, drama, and exquisite music as we bring Puccini’s *Manon Lescaut* to life. Secure your tickets now and be part of this extraordinary operatic experience.

EPSG:4326

Manon Lescaut by Giacomo Puccini

Northwestern University

Join us for an enchanting evening of vocal performance as Emma Rothfield, a talented soprano from the Northwestern Bienen School of Music, presents her recital. This event is part of her Master of Music degree requirements, under the guidance of esteemed faculty member W. Stephen Smith. Accompanying Emma on the piano will be Charles Foster, enhancing the evening with their collaborative artistry.

The recital is scheduled for Friday, June 7, 2024, at 6:00pm CDT, in the Mary B. Galvin Recital Hall. This venue, known for its breathtaking views of Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline, promises an unforgettable backdrop for the performance. The hall's acoustics, enhanced by its unique architectural design, will ensure that every note is heard in pristine clarity.

Emma's program includes a diverse selection of works, showcasing her versatile vocal range and emotional depth. The audience will be treated to Hector Berlioz's "La mort de Cléopâtre," a dramatic exploration of Cleopatra's final moments. Contemporary flair will be added with Kathleen Tagg's "This Be Her Verse," and the duet from Giacomo Puccini's "La bohème" will bring a touch of classic opera romance. For a lighter note, Mel Brooks' "I’m Tired" from "Blazing Saddles" will provide a humorous twist.

Admission to this event is free, and tickets are not required. For those unable to attend in person, a live stream will be available, ensuring that no one misses out on this captivating performance.

Don't miss this opportunity to support emerging talent and experience the power of live vocal performance in one of the most beautiful recital halls in the country.

Emma Rothfield, soprano

Mary B. Galvin Recital Hall

Join us for an enchanting evening of vocal mastery as Avery Winick, a talented mezzo-soprano and Master of Music student at the Northwestern Bienen School of Music, takes the stage. This recital, part of her academic journey under the guidance of Pamela Hinchman, promises to be a memorable event featuring the accompaniment of Jason Carlson on piano.

**Event Details:**
- **Date:** Monday, June 3, 2024
- **Time:** 6:00pm CDT
- **Location:** Galvin Recital Hall, Ryan Center for the Musical Arts, 70 Arts Circle Drive, Evanston, IL 60208

**Program Highlights:**
- Richard Wagner's "Wesendonck Lieder, WWV 91"
- Modest Mussorgsky's "Songs and Dances of Death"
- Giuseppe Verdi's "O don fatale" from Don Carlos

This recital is a free event, open to all who appreciate the profound beauty and complexity of opera and classical music. No tickets are required, and for those unable to attend in person, a live stream will be available to ensure you don't miss this performance.

The Galvin Recital Hall, with its breathtaking views of Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline, coupled with its exceptional acoustics, provides the perfect backdrop for Avery Winick's powerful and emotive performance. Don't miss this opportunity to experience the depth of talent within the Northwestern Bienen School of Music.

Avery Winick, mezzo-soprano

Join us for an enchanting evening of vocal performance as Audrey Neace, a talented mezzo-soprano and Bachelor of Music student at the Northwestern Bienen School of Music, takes the stage. Under the guidance of Patrice Michaels, Audrey will perform a captivating recital featuring a diverse repertoire that spans the breadth of classical music. The program includes Charles Gounod's "Faites-lui mes aveux" from Faust, selections from Gustav Mahler's Lieder und Gesänge, Gabriel Fauré's Cinq mélodies de Venise, Op. 58, and more, showcasing the depth and versatility of Audrey's vocal talent.

Accompanied by Julia Frodyma, soprano, and Jason Carlson on piano, the evening promises to be a showcase of exceptional musicality and a celebration of the human voice. The recital will also feature works by Vincenzo Bellini, Pauline Viardot, Libby Larsen, Jocelyn Hagen, William Bolcom, and Victor Herbert, offering a rich tapestry of musical expressions.

This special event is scheduled for Sunday, June 2, 2024, at 8:30pm CDT, in the Mary B. Galvin Recital Hall. Located in the Ryan Center for the Musical Arts, the Galvin Recital Hall is renowned for its stunning acoustics and breathtaking views of Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline, providing the perfect backdrop for an evening of exquisite music.

Admission to this event is free, and tickets are not required. For those unable to attend in person, a live stream will be available, ensuring that no one misses out on this remarkable performance. Don't miss this opportunity to experience the artistry of Audrey Neace and her fellow musicians in one of the most beautiful concert venues in the country.

Audrey Neace, mezzo-soprano

Join us for an enchanting evening of vocal performance as Catherine Pace, a talented soprano and Bachelor of Music student at the Northwestern Bienen School of Music, takes the stage. Under the guidance of Nancy Gustafson, with Douglas Culclasure, tenor, and Olga Sklyanskaya on piano, this recital promises to be a memorable showcase of musical brilliance.

**Date & Time:** Saturday, June 1, 2024, at 6:00pm CDT

**Location:** Mary B. Galvin Recital Hall, Ryan Center for the Musical Arts, 70 Arts Circle Drive, Evanston, IL 60208, United States

**Program Highlights:**
- Sergei Rachmaninoff: Selections from 12 Romances, Op. 21 and 6 Romances, Op. 8
- Carl Orff: Selections from Carmina Burana
- Gaetano Donizetti: Selections from Linda di Chamounix
- Libby Larsen: Selections from Three Cowboy Songs
- Dave Malloy: "No One Else" from Natasha, Pierre & The Great Comet of 1812
- Adam Guettel: Selections from The Light in the Piazza

This event is free and open to the public, with no tickets required. Attendees will also have the opportunity to enjoy the performance via live stream, ensuring that no one misses out on this spectacular display of vocal talent.

The Mary B. Galvin Recital Hall, known for its breathtaking views of Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline, provides the perfect backdrop for this event. The hall's acoustics, enhanced by undulating walls covered with African moabi wood, promise an auditory experience as stunning as the visual one.

Don't miss this opportunity to support emerging talent and experience the beauty of live vocal performance in one of the most exquisite venues in Evanston.

Catherine Pace, soprano

Join us for an enchanting evening of vocal performance as Ashley Brewer, a talented soprano from the Northwestern Bienen School of Music, takes the stage. This recital is part of her Bachelor of Music degree, under the tutelage of Pamela Hinchman. Accompanied by Jason Carlson on piano, Ashley will perform Francis Poulenc's emotive work, "La voix humaine."

**Event Details:**
- **Date:** Friday, May 31, 2024
- **Time:** 6:00pm CDT
- **Location:** Shirley Welsh Ryan Opera Theater, Bienen School of Music, 70 Arts Circle Drive, Evanston, IL 60208, United States
- **Admission:** Free. Tickets are not required for this event.

The Shirley Welsh Ryan Opera Theater, nestled within the Patrick G. and Shirley W. Ryan Center for the Musical Arts, offers a cozy and intimate setting for this performance. With its double-height ceilings and expansive windows, the theater provides stunning views of Lake Michigan, making it the perfect backdrop for an evening of exquisite music.

Don't miss this opportunity to experience the power and beauty of the human voice in one of the most picturesque settings on the Northwestern University campus.

Ashley Brewer, soprano

Join us for an enchanting evening with the Northwestern University Chamber Orchestra at the prestigious Pick-Staiger Concert Hall. Under the baton of conductor Benjamin Manis, this performance promises to be a memorable one, featuring talented cast members from the Northwestern University Opera Theater's production of Mozart's "Così fan tutte."

**Date and Time:** Thursday, April 18, 2024, at 7:30pm CDT

**Location:** Pick-Staiger Concert Hall, 50 Arts Cir Dr, Evanston, IL 60208, United States

**Program Highlights:**
- Louise Farrenc, Symphony No. 3 in G Minor, Op. 86
- W. A. Mozart, Act I Finale from "Così fan tutte," K. 588
- W. A. Mozart, Act II Finale from "Così fan tutte," K. 588

**Ticket Information:**
- General Public: $6
- Students with valid ID: $4

**About Pick-Staiger Concert Hall:**
Pick-Staiger is a 972-seat hall located in the Arts Circle on the Evanston campus of Northwestern University. Since its inception in 1975, the hall has served as a vital space for Bienen School of Music performances, faculty recitals, festivals, and guest artist appearances.

Don't miss this opportunity to experience the brilliance of the Northwestern University Chamber Orchestra and the captivating scenes from "Così fan tutte." Secure your tickets now for an evening of exquisite music and talent.

Mozart's Così fan tutte

Join us for an enchanting evening of vocal performance as Andrew Pulver, a talented baritone and Bachelor of Music student at the Northwestern Bienen School of Music, takes the stage. Under the guidance of Patrice Michaels, with Yun-Hua Chang on piano, this recital promises to be a memorable showcase of Pulver's vocal prowess and artistic sensitivity.

**Event Details:**
- **Date:** Monday, May 13, 2024
- **Time:** 8:30 PM CDT
- **Location:** Galvin Recital Hall, Ryan Center for the Musical Arts, 70 Arts Circle Drive, Evanston, IL 60208, United States

**Program Highlights:**
- A selection of works by Gabriel Fauré, including "Automne" from 3 Songs, Op. 18, and "En prière"
- Francis Poulenc's "C" from 2 Poèmes de Louis Aragon, FP 122
- Ambroise Thomas' "O vin, dissipe la tristesse" from Hamlet
- Gustav Mahler's "Frühlingsmorgen" from Lieder und Gesänge aus der Jugendzeit, Vol. 1
- Franz Schubert's "Trockne Blumen" from Die schöne Müllerin, D. 795
- And more from the repertoires of Erich Korngold, Niccolò Jommelli, Paolo Tosti, Giacomo Puccini, Mikuláš Schneider-Trnavský, Antonín Dvořák, Gejza Dusík, and Richard Rodgers.

This event is free and open to the public, with no tickets required. For those unable to attend in person, a live stream will be available, ensuring no one misses out on this showcase of emerging talent.

The Galvin Recital Hall, with its breathtaking views of Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline, coupled with its state-of-the-art acoustics, provides the perfect backdrop for an evening of exquisite music.

Don't miss this opportunity to support and enjoy the artistry of Andrew Pulver and the vibrant community of the Northwestern Bienen School of Music.

Andrew Pulver, baritone

Join us for an enchanting afternoon of vocal performance as Rena Maduro, a talented soprano from the Northwestern Bienen School of Music, presents her student recital. This event is scheduled for Saturday, May 11, 2024, at 2:30pm CDT, in the exquisite Mary B. Galvin Recital Hall. Under the tutelage of W. Stephen Smith, and accompanied by Charles Foster on piano, Rena will showcase her versatile vocal range through a carefully selected repertoire. The program includes Fernando J. Obradors' "Canciones Clásicas Españolas, Vol. 1," selections from Adam Guettel's "The Light in the Piazza," "Enfin, je suis ici" from Jules Massenet's "Cendrillon," Libby Larsen's "Try Me, Good King: Last Words of the Wives of Henry VIII," George Frideric Handel's "Piangerò, la sorte mia" from "Giulio Cesare," and "When I Have Sung My Songs" by Ernest Charles.

This recital is a free event, open to all who appreciate the transformative power of music. No tickets are required for attendance. For those unable to join in person, a live stream will be available, ensuring you don't miss this remarkable display of vocal artistry. The Mary B. Galvin Recital Hall, located at 70 Arts Circle Drive, Evanston, IL 60208, United States, offers a stunning backdrop with views of Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline, providing an unforgettable setting for what promises to be a memorable performance.

Rena Maduro, soprano

Join us for an enchanting afternoon of vocal performance as Lila Brown, a talented mezzo-soprano and Bachelor of Music student at the Northwestern Bienen School of Music, presents her recital. Under the guidance of Nancy Gustafson, with Olga Sklyanskaya on piano, Lila will take the stage on Saturday, May 11, 2024, at 4:00pm CDT in the Chapel of the Unnamed Faithful, located at Garrett Evangelical Theological Seminary, 2121 Sheridan Road, Evanston.

This captivating recital will feature a diverse selection of pieces that showcase the depth and versatility of the mezzo-soprano voice. The program includes beloved arias such as "Mon coeur s’ouvre à ta voix" from Samson et Dalila by Camille Saint-Saëns, "L’amour est un oiseau rebelle" from Carmen by Georges Bizet, and "Che farò senza Euridice" from Orfeo ed Euridice by Christoph Willibald von Gluck. Lila will also perform works by Paolo Tosti, Richard Strauss, Claude Debussy, Charles Gounod, Antonín Dvořák, Franz Liszt, and more, including contemporary pieces like "Stay Awake" from Mary Poppins by Robert B. and Richard M. Sherman, and "Witch’s Lament" from Into the Woods by Stephen Sondheim.

This event is free and open to the public, with no tickets required. Don't miss this opportunity to experience the powerful and emotive performance of Lila Brown, a rising star in the world of opera and classical music.

Lila Brown, mezzo-soprano

Join us for an enchanting evening of vocal performance as Jackson Pierzina, a talented bass-baritone from the Northwestern Bienen School of Music, presents his recital. This event is scheduled for Wednesday, April 24, 2024, at 8:30pm CDT, in the Mary B. Galvin Recital Hall. Under the tutelage of Stephen Smith, Jackson will showcase his versatility and depth as a vocalist with a diverse program that includes:

- Ralph Vaughan Williams' "Songs of Travel"
- Giuseppe Verdi's "Il lacerato spirito" from Simon Boccanegra
- W. A. Mozart's "O Isis und Osiris" from Die Zauberflöte
- Bernard Herrmann's "Man that is Born of a Woman" from Wuthering Heights
- Erroll Garner's "Misty"
- Victor Young's "When I Fall in Love"
- Harold Arlen's "It’s Only a Paper Moon"
- J. S. Bach's "Nach dir, Herr, verlanget mich, BWV 150"
- John David arr. Peter Knight's "You Are the New Day"

This recital is a free event, open to all who wish to experience the power of voice and the beauty of music. No tickets are required for attendance. For those unable to join in person, a live stream of the event will be available, ensuring you don't miss this remarkable performance.

The Mary B. Galvin Recital Hall, located at 70 Arts Circle Drive, Evanston, IL 60208, United States, offers an intimate setting with stunning views of Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline. The hall's acoustics, enhanced by undulating walls covered with African moabi wood, promise an auditory experience as breathtaking as the visual surroundings.

Don't miss this opportunity to support emerging talent and enjoy an evening of exquisite music.

Jackson Pierzina, bass-baritone

Join us for an enchanting afternoon of vocal music as Julianna Smith, a talented mezzo-soprano and Master of Music student at the Northwestern Bienen School of Music, presents her recital. Under the guidance of Patrice Michaels, Julianna will perform a captivating selection of pieces that showcase the depth and versatility of her voice. The program includes works by Hector Berlioz, Alessandro Parisotti, Alma Schindler Mahler, Alexander Dargomyzhsky, Vernon Duke, Stefano Donaudy, Richard Strauss, and W.A. Mozart, promising a rich exploration of the vocal repertoire.

Accompanying Julianna on this musical journey will be Megan Fleischmann and Uma Singh (soprano), Charles Foster (piano), Luisa Brown-Hernandez (string bass), and Jason Gluck (conductor), ensuring a performance of exceptional quality and collaboration.

This recital is scheduled for Sunday, April 21, 2024, at 2:30pm CDT, in the Mary B. Galvin Recital Hall. Located in the Ryan Center for the Musical Arts, the Galvin Recital Hall is renowned for its stunning acoustics and breathtaking views of Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline, providing the perfect backdrop for this musical event.

Admission to this event is free, and tickets are not required. For those unable to attend in person, a live stream will be available, allowing you to enjoy this beautiful performance from anywhere.

Don't miss this opportunity to support emerging talent and experience the transformative power of music.

Julianna Smith, mezzo-soprano

Verdi’s popular 1846 opera in a prologue and three acts takes us to the mid-5th century near Rome following Attila, King of the Huns. A story of Power, Glory, and Betrayal, Attila was Verdi's 9th opera and has been one of his most popular earlier works with soaring melodies, giant choruses within this epic tale.

Opera events in Evanston, IL

Manon Lescaut by Giacomo ...

Opera Festival of Chicago

Emma Rothfield, soprano

Northwestern Bienen School of Music

Avery Winick, mezzo-sopra...

Northwestern Bienen School of Music

Audrey Neace, mezzo-sopra...

Northwestern Bienen School of Music

Catherine Pace, soprano

Northwestern Bienen School of Music

Ashley Brewer, soprano

Northwestern Bienen School of Music

Mozart's Così fan tutte

Northwestern Bienen School of Music

Andrew Pulver, baritone

Northwestern Bienen School of Music

Rena Maduro, soprano

Northwestern Bienen School of Music

Lila Brown, mezzo-soprano...

Northwestern Bienen School of Music

Jackson Pierzina, bass-ba...

Northwestern Bienen School of Music

Julianna Smith, mezzo-sop...

Northwestern Bienen School of Music

Verdi Attila

Opera Festival of Chicago