MUSIC

Opera in the Heights presents the epic drama Don Carlo, a stirring and passionate story taken from a fateful era in history. It features heartbreak, betrayal, defiance, and acceptance, all sung to exquisite music.

Many consider it Verdi’s most admired opera: it has some of the most glorious arias in the Italian repertoire, his best orchestral writing, and moving personal drama which Verdi added to the source material, Friedrich Schiller’s play.

Don Carlo takes place in Spain in the 16th century when it was the center of world power, and the Inquisition was a dark shadow hanging over all of Europe. In the opera, King Philip’s third wife, Elizabeth, and his son from his first marriage, Don Carlo, are in love. These characters are given depth, strength, and complex emotions that bring them to life, not only as royalty, but as ordinary humans in extraordinary circumstances.

"With all the dramatic elements of a great history-based novel carried by some of the most wonderful music Verdi ever wrote, Don Carlo remains a favorite in the operatic repertoire,” said Enrique Carreón-Robledo who makes his debut as conductor in this production. He has been a guest conductor at a great number of opera, ballet, and symphonic orchestras in Europe, the Americas, the South Pacific, and the Middle and Far East. Brian Byrnes will return to direct Don Carlo, after having a great success with last season’s La Bohème.

Performance dates are January 27, 28, 29, February 3, 4, 5, 2011. Tickets are $20 - $49 with special prices for students ($10) any time and for seniors ($28) on Thursdays and Fridays in limited seating areas.

Click here for a synopsis of this opera.

Opera in the Heights, a professional regional opera company, exists to provide a stage for emerging performers and to bring affordable opera to the greater Houston area. All operas are presented in the original language with English surtitles in Lambert Hall, at the corner of Heights Blvd. and 17th Street in the Houston Heights, with easy and convenient parking.

Experience these traditional productions in an intimate (300 seat), historic setting, where the audience can enjoy the performance up close! Call 713-861-5303 or visit www.operaintheheights.org  for more information. See you UP CLOSE!