Verdi's NABUCCO returns to Calgary!

Calgary Concert Opera presents Verdi's NABUCCO!

On September 19th, Calgary Concert Opera offers a production of Verdi's 'Nabucco' - the first time the opera has been performed in Calgary in 30 years. 'Nabucco' tells the Biblical story of the Jews as they are conquered and exiled by Nabucco, the king of the Babylonian empire. 

What makes this opera relevant for today's audience? The opera tells a story about people displaced from their traditional homeland, longing to return: a theme that has considerable prevalence in today's world. The story tells a message of unity and hope that will emote a sense of strength and, in the end, reconciliation - a hopeful message in a time of relative uncertainty for many.

What makes this production special? 'Nabucco' is well-known because of the famous "Chorus of the Hebrew Slaves", the famed "Va, pensiero". This well-known chorus has become a metaphor for hope and resilience. For this production, we have assembled a chorus of people from across southern Alberta -- from Sylvan Lake all the way to Okotoks and High River -- anchored by the Foothills Philharmonic Opera Chorus. It's a fantastic opportunity to see your friends and neighbours sing this extraordinary music.

This also marks the first time in 30 years that 'Nabucco' will be performed. Verdi is one of the most beloved composers of grand opera. His works have been performed in the city recently, including Macbeth and La Traviata. 

Finally, we've assembled a tremendous all-Canadian cast to tell this story -- many of whom are based in Alberta. We're led by Toronto-based conductor William Shookhoff as our one-man orchestra. Shookhoff is a respected conductor, pianist and vocal coach, and is the artistic director of Opera By Request in Toronto. Toronto-based baritone Michael Robert-Broder takes on the demanding role of Nabucco, with a talented supporting cast from all over Alberta.

Cast:

Michael Robert-Broder (Toronto) - Nabucco

Krista de Silva (Calgary) - Abigaille, supposedly the elder daughter of Nabucco (no spoilers!)

Barbara King (Calgary) - Fenena, daughter of Nabucco 

Bertrand Malo (Edmonton) - Zaccaria, the high priest of the Jews

Melissa Jackson (Calgary) - Anna, sister of Zaccaria
Dan Rowley (Edmonton) - Ismaele, nephew of the king of Jerusalem

Oliver Peplowski (Calgary) - the High Priest of Baal

Jason Ragan (Calgary) - Abdallo, a Babylonian soldier

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September 19, 2024 - 7 PM                                                                                                                                          

Lutheran Church of the Cross - 10620 Elbow Drive SW, Calgary, AB  T2W 1G4

Tickets online or at the door:                                                                                                                                                        

Adults - $25+fees / Students under 17 - $15+fees                                                                                                               

Free parking

Advanced Tickets: https://www.polariscentre.ca/nabucco

For more information, contact:
BARBARA KING, Artistic Director, Calgary Concert Opera
403-617-3554 | mail@calgaryconcertopera.com
https://calgaryconcertopera.com

Presented by: Calgary Concert Opera Company

Genres: Voice, Solo