STLO’s Rigoletto brings classic tale, songs to life Jan. 29, Feb. 1
Opera star Constantinos Yiannoudes plays the lead role “Rigoletto” in South Texas Lyric Opera’s production of Rigoletto on Jan. 29 and Feb. 1.
South Texas Lyric Opera, which is sponsored in part by South Texas College, is bringing Verdi’s Rigoletto to life in the Rio Grande Valley. The curtains are set to go up on Verdi’s classic songs and tale on Thursday, Jan. 29 at 8 p.m. and Sunday, Feb. 1 at 3 p.m. at the McAllen Civic Center.
Featuring some of opera’s most loved and well-known musical pieces, the story is set in 1500’s Italy. The three-act opera unfolds the tale of a love gone wrong and deceit, with a young, love-struck girl at the center of the action. Tragically, the story ends upon the heroine’s death, but ultimate proclamation of independence from her father.
Attendees will be treated to performances by leading operatic stars including Constantinos Yiannoudes, who plays the lead role “Rigoletto.” Yiannoudes brings the production a rich baritone voice. Not only has he performed at Carnegie Hall, he has played leading roles in Carmen, Madame Butterfly, Tosca, La Traviata and La Boheme with the nation’s top opera companies.
Brazilian soprano Cristina Piccardi plays the leading female heroin “Gilda.” Julliard-trained Piccardi has performed around the world including Europe and Asia, as well as across North and South America. She performs opposite San Antonio native Tim Birt who plays Gilda’s love interest, “The Duke.” A tenor known for his romantic voice and handsome appearance, Birt has performed in leading roles with the Chicago Opera Theatre, Battle Creek Symphony, Indianapolis Opera and The San Antonio Opera.
Also, the performance will feature a chorus of more than 24 local students and business professionals and the 42-musician South Texas Lyric Opera Orchestra.
“Rigoletto features some of the most well-known opera pieces in history and we know that our audience will be able to relate to the music in a very personal way,” said founder and artistic director Dr. Mazias de Oliveira.
Tickets starts at $15 and are on sale now. For more information about the performance and ticket sales call the ticket box office at 681-3804 or 872-6478.