Lyric Opera Profile: Ariadne auf Naxos

Vienna’s richest man is planning an incredible party.

First — guests will enjoy a serious opera (the Prima Donna plays Ariadne, who’s ready to die on the island of Naxos because her lover’s jilted her). Then comes a ribald comedy, starring saucy Zerbinetta (who’s got a Ph.D. in flirting). And finally, there’s to be a pyrotechnic display.

But the host suddenly decides both productions must take place simultaneously so the fireworks can start promptly at nine!

The Composer’s aghast and the Prima Donna’s horrified. But watch what happens when Zerbinetta gets into the act and determines that Ariadne’s “tragedy” shouldn’t end unhappily after all!

This is Strauss à la Rosenkavalier, with sparkling, luscious music that wraps itself around a witty comedy.

- Larry Lapidus, Lyric Opera of Chicago, presents this profile.

- from the Lyric Opera's website:http://www.lyricopera.org      

Location: Baxter Room - Auditorium (main floor)