Madison Opera 2014/15

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14 15

SEASON

Two Madison Opera premieres. The return of a classic comedy. A Madison summer tradition. And so much more.

LET US ENTERTAIN YOU.


Welcome to Madison Opera’s

thoroughly entertaining 2014/15 season, with productions that are heart-wrenching, hilarious, invigorating, witty, and sweet.

In short, opera in all its vibrant glory. We open with our first staged performances of Fidelio, Beethoven’s only opera, an ode to freedom and the triumph of love. Then it is off to the Capitol Theater for the darkly humorous and deliciously gothic Sweeney Todd, an absolute American masterpiece. In the spring we offer our first Overture Hall staging of a beloved comedy, The Barber of Seville, featuring a dynamic young cast. Subscribe today and

let us entertain you all season long. Kathryn Smith General Director

John DeMain Artistic Director


Fidel i o

by Ludwig van Beethoven

November 21 & 23, 2014 | Overture Hall

Sweeney Todd The Demon Barber of Fleet Street A Musical Thriller

Music and Lyrics by Stephen Sondheim Book by Hugh Wheeler

February 6, 7, & 8, 2015 | Capitol Theater at Overture Center

THE

BaRBE R SEvil lE OF

by Gioachino Rossini

April 24 & 26, 2015 | Overture Hall

2015 IN THE

A Madison Summer Tradition July 25, 2015 | Garner Park

For the best seats and best deals,

ORDER SEASON TICKETS TODAY! 608.238.8085 | madisonopera.org



Fidel i o John DeMain, Conductor | Tara Faircloth*, Director Starring Alexandra LoBianco, Alisa Jordheim*, Clay Hilley, Kelly Markgraf, Matt Boehler, David Blalock*, and Liam Moran* * Madison Opera debut

A

Sung in German with projected English translations

pera

miere re

Overture Hall

nO

aged P St

Friday, November 21, 2014 | 8pm Sunday, November 23, 2014 | 2:30pm

Madiso

by Ludwig van Beethoven

Love is Stronger than Fear.

Beethoven’s only opera is an ode to freedom. To rescue her husband, a political prisoner, the noblewoman Leonore disguises herself as a man and works at the prison where she believes her husband is held. Ranging from breathtaking arias to one of the most beautiful choral tributes to freedom ever written, Beethoven’s score is truly sublime, with an everbuilding dramatic intensity that leaves the audience exhilarated. Alexandra LoBianco (A Masked Ball) makes her role debut as Leonore, who risks everything to rescue her husband Florestan, played by rising dramatic tenor Clay Hilley. Two artists returning from Don Giovanni, Kelly Markgraf and Matt Boehler, play the evil Don Pizarro and the sympathetic jailer Rocco. The cast is completed by exciting young artists Alisa Jordheim, David Blalock, and Liam Moran in their debuts. Come hear and feel the power of this magnificent Beethoven opus.

Sponsored by Pleasant T. Rowland Foundation

Kay & Martin Barrett

Millie & Marshall Osborn

608.238.8085 | madisonopera.org | Let us entertain you all year long — subscribe and save!



Sweeney Todd

The Demon Barber of Fleet Street

A Musical Thriller Music and Lyrics by Stephen Sondheim Book by Hugh Wheeler

Friday, February 6, 2015 | 8pm Saturday, February 7, 2015 | 8pm Sunday, February 8, 2015 | 2:30pm

Capitol Theater at Overture Hall Sung in English with projected text

John DeMain, Conductor | Norma Saldivar*, Director Starring Corey Crider*, Meredith Arwady*, Jeni Houser, Thomas Forde, Daniel Shirley, and Jared Rogers* * Madison Opera debut

Revenge is best served with meat pies.

After 15 years of unjust imprisonment in a penal colony, the barber Sweeney Todd returns to the gas-lit streets of Victorian London to claim vengeance on those who wronged him. Sondheim’s stunningly inventive score contains intense drama, macabre humor, lyrical purity, and an unforgettable final scene. Madison Opera presents a new production of this classic, using a powerhouse cast and full orchestra to bring this most operatic of theatre scores to life. Corey Crider (Lyric Opera of Chicago) and Meredith Arwady (San Francisco Opera, Metropolitan Opera) make their Madison Opera debuts as the vengeful barber and the everpractical Mrs. Lovett. Former Studio Artist Jeni Houser sings Johanna, wooed by Daniel Shirley (Acis & Galatea) as Anthony, and menaced by Thomas Forde (A Masked Ball) as the evil Judge Turpin. Don’t miss this thrilling American masterpiece.

Sponsored by

608.238.8085 | madisonopera.org | Let us entertain you all year long — subscribe and save!



THE

BaRBE R SEvil lE OF

by Gioachino Rossini

Friday, April 24, 2015 | 8pm Sunday, April 26, 2015 | 2:30pm Overture Hall Sung in Italian with projected English translations

John DeMain, Conductor | Doug Scholz-Carlson, Director Starring Emily Fons, Juan José de León*, Will Liverman*, and Thomas Forde * Madison Opera debut

Shave and a romcom, two bits.

The greatest operatic comedy returns to Madison Opera for the first time in twelve years. With a count in multiple disguises, a young woman trying to outwit her guardian, and a barber being paid to ensure a happy ending, what could possibly go wrong? Rossini’s spectacular, memorable music will thrill and delight from the first note to the last. A dynamic young cast brings this witty love story to life. Emily Fons (Opera in the Park 2012) makes her mainstage debut as Rosina. Making their Madison Opera debuts are Juan José de León (Metropolitan Opera) as Almaviva and Will Liverman (Lyric Opera of Chicago) as Figaro. Whether you’ve seen this opera a thousand times or never, you’ll want to grab your seat in this barber shop.

Sponsored by Helen Wineke 608.238.8085 | madisonopera.org | Let us entertain you all year long — subscribe and save!


2015 IN THE A Madison Summer Tradition July 25, 2015 | Garner Park rain date: July 26

Free community event Opera in the Park, Madison Opera’s gift to the community, is a night like no other. In beautiful Garner Park, the stars come out in the sky, the light sticks come out in the audience, and singers from our upcoming season share their favorite opera and Broadway numbers, along with the Madison Opera Chorus and Madison Symphony Orchestra. Come join 14,000 of your neighbors for this Madison summer tradition. Want to make the night extra special? Join us for a Prelude Dinner before the concert, including reserved seating in front of the stage. Look for more information on our website in May 2015.

Sponsored by


SUPPORT US Ticket sales pay for only about a third of the cost of producing opera in all its glory. Madison Opera relies upon our friends and supporters who value the community-building power of the arts to make up the difference. Help us make opera happen in Madison by adding a gift to your subscription, and we’ll provide an array of benefits— from backstage tours to rehearsals, cast parties, and parking.

Your tax-deductible contribution makes possible: The Student Matinees attended each season by over 2,000 high school students, many of whom have never seen a fully-staged opera. Opera in the Park, a free concert enjoyed by more than 14,000 people every season. Free previews for senior citizens and other community groups. Community partnerships with groups such as Big Brothers Big Sisters. The High School Apprenticeship Program that helps prepare tomorrow’s arts professionals. And, of course, world-class performances of operas onstage right here in Madison. For more information on supporting Madison Opera, contact Beth Tolles, Development Director, at tolles@madisonopera.org.


ENHANCE YOUR EXPERIENCE Don’t Miss a Word: English translations are projected above the stage, ensuring that you don’t miss an entertaining word. Pre-Opera Talks: Join us one hour before curtain for some insights into the opera. Free to ticket holders! Post-Opera Q&A: You’ve seen the opera – and hopefully you’ve loved it. But are you wondering about something...? Join General Director Kathryn Smith immediately after the Overture Hall productions for a question-andanswer about what you’ve just seen.

Opera Up Close

There’s no better way to get up close to the operatic art form. Join Madison Opera for a series of entertaining and informative previews of this season’s productions. General Director Kathryn Smith leads a multimedia exploration of the history of each opera, along with behind-thescenes commentary from guest artists. Fidelio preview | Sunday, November 16, 2014 – 1-3pm Sweeney Todd preview | Sunday, February 1, 2015 – 1-3pm The Barber of Seville preview | Sunday, April 19, 2015 – 1-3pm Opera Up Close is held at the Madison Museum of Contemporary Art, 227 State Street, Madison. Admission is $20 for non-subscribers. Subscribe and save up to $60 on Opera Up Close tickets!

Opera Novice

Demystifying opera one hour at a time. First-time opera-goer? Timid about taking the plunge? Just want more insight into opera? Come to the Madison Opera Center for a short, fun, and informative evening about the artform that is opera. Learn about what goes into putting on a production, enjoy performance selections, and have the chance to ask questions. It’s the perfect jump-start for the opera curious. Opera and Politics | Thursday, October 30, 2014 – 6-7pm American Operas vs. Musicals | Friday, January 16, 2015 – 6-7pm Opera and Cartoons | Friday, March 27, 2015 – 6-7pm Opera Novice is held at the Madison Opera Center, 335 W. Mifflin Street, Madison, and is FREE and open to the public. RSVPs are requested.


MICI Amici is Madison Opera’s affinity group for young professionals to engage with Madison Opera, whether they are opera newbies or opera omnivores. Members of the energetic Amici enjoy unique behind-the-scenes access throughout the year, with a mix of activities surrounding the exciting productions of the season. It’s the most fun way to get to know your opera company and fellow arts lovers! For more information or to join Amici, contact us at 608.238.8085 or at amici@madisonopera.org.

Sharon Isbin, guitar & Isabel Leonard, mezzo-soprano Saturday, March 21, 2015, 8pm | Shannon Hall, Wisconsin Union Theater

Special offer for Madison Opera subscribers! Subscribers to the 14/15 Season are eligible for a discount on regularly priced tickets. To take advantage of this offer, simply fill out the appropriate section on your subscription form. When we send you your season tickets, you will also receive a voucher to redeem when you order your tickets at the Wisconsin Union Theater Box Office. This voucher is good for $10 off the General Public price for up to 4 tickets in Section A.

Presented in partnership with

Classical guitarist and multiple GRAMMY Award winner Sharon Isbin has been acclaimed for her extraordinary lyrcisim, technique and versatility.

Talented mezzo-soprano and international performer Isabel Leonard has been praised for her “passionate intensity and remarkable vocal beauty”.

Offer may not be combined with other discounts. Offer not valid with prior purchases. Voucher must be presented at time of purchase at either Memorial Union Box Office or Vilas Hall Box Office. Tickets available August 1, 2014. Questions: Please call the Box Office at 608 265 ARTS


SUBSCRIBE TODAY!

Subscriber Benefits:

Discounts: Subscribers save up to 15% over regular ticket prices, as well as saving up to $25 in ticketing fees compared to buying single tickets. Subscribers also receive a “Madison Opera Subscriber Card� good for free or reduced admission to Opera Up Close, a savings of up to $60. Exchanges: Subscribers may exchange tickets for another performance of the same opera for no cost, up to 48 hours in advance, subject to availability. (Note: We will attempt to exchange your seats to one near your subscription seats, if possible.) Priority Seating: Subscribers receive first choice of seats; non-subscription tickets do not go on sale until September. Renewable Seats: Subscribers can renew their same seats for the following year and are first in line to move to better seats. Lost Ticket Insurance: Lost your tickets? Simply contact Madison Opera and we will issue replacements.

FOUR SIMPLE WAYS TO SUBSCRIBE Mail Fill out the attached order form and mail it along with your payment to Madison Opera. Phone Call Madison Opera at 608.238.8085 with your order during regular business hours. Fax Fax the attached order form to 608.233.3431. Online Visit us at madisonopera.org and complete an online subscription form.


THE FINE PRINT • Renewing subscribers have until June 8, 2014 to renew and retain their 2013/14 seats. New subscriptions will be processed beginning June 11, 2014, in the order received. • Checks will be deposited and credit cards charged upon receipt of order. • Subscribers will receive an acknowledgement postcard once their order has been processed. Tickets will be mailed in September 2014. • Tickets are non-refundable. Subscribers may exchange tickets for an alternate performance of the same opera up to 48 hours in advance for no fee through the Madison Opera office, subject to availability. Tickets may also be donated back to Madison Opera for a tax-deduction, for which you will receive a receipt from the company. • Single tickets will be available through the Overture Center Box Office beginning September 4, 2014. • All sales are final. No refunds or credits will be issued. • All casts subject to change. For help with special needs seating or other questions, please call Patron Services at 608.238.8085 or email patronservices@madisonopera.org.

Mail to: MADISON OPERA • 335 W. Mifflin Street • Madison, WI 53703 • Attn: Patron Services


2014/15 SEASON | VENUES & TICKET PRICES

Subscribe today and save!

Subscribers save up to 15% off single ticket prices, as well as saving up to $25 in ticket fees over single tickets purchased through the Overture Center box office. Subscribe to all three shows for the greatest savings — and the most entertaining year! SERIES 1 - Full Season: Friday Evenings Fidelio (Nov. 21); Sweeney Todd (Feb. 6); The Barber of Seville (Apr. 24) SERIES 2 - Full Season: Sunday Matinees Fidelio (Nov. 23); Sweeney Todd (Feb. 8); The Barber of Seville (Apr. 26) SERIES 3 - Overture Hall Only: Friday Evenings Fidelio (Nov. 21); The Barber of Seville (Apr. 24) SERIES 4 - Overture Hall Only: Sunday Matinees Fidelio (Nov. 23); The Barber of Seville (Apr. 26) SERIES 1 & 2 Subscription Prices: Choose an Overture Hall level AND a Capitol Theater Level.

SERIES 3 & 4 Subscription Prices: Choose an Overture Hall level.

Overture Hall Level

Overture Hall Level

A ($230) B ($172)

A ($238)

Capitol Theater Level

B ($182)

C ($138) D ($100)

A ($99)

D ($106)

E ($84)

B ($71)

E ($88)

F ($42)

C ($50)

F ($46)

G ($30)

D ($21)

C ($146)

G ($32)

Please note that supertitles are not visible from Section G seats, except in the balcony.

Please note that supertitles are not visible from Section G seats, except in the balcony.

Price includes discounts, sales tax, and Overture Center fees.

Price includes discounts, sales tax, and Overture Center fees.

Overture Hall

Capitol Theater

BALCONY MEZZANINE

CIRCLE

ORCHESTRA


20I4/I5 SUBSCRIPTION ORDER FORM CHOOSE YOUR SERIES Series 1 or 2 Full Season:

S eries 1 - Friday Evenings

S eries 2 - Sunday Matinees

Overture Hall (Fidelio | The Barber of Seville) Subscription price

LEVEL O rchestra

SECTION A B C E

G

Circle Mezzanine Balcony

A A

B B

C C

G F G

D

F

G

E E

Subtotal

Quantity

$

x

= $

Capitol Theater (Sweeney Todd) LEVEL O rchestra

Circle Mezzanine Balcony

Subscription price

SECTION A B A A

B

C

D

C

Subtotal

Quantity

x

$

= $

D

Series 3 or 4 Overture Hall Only:

S eries 3 - Friday Evenings

S eries 4 - Sunday Matinees

Overture Hall (Fidelio | The Barber of Seville) LEVEL O rchestra Circle Mezzanine Balcony

Subscription price

SECTION A B C E

G

A A

B B

C C

G F G

D

F

G

E E

Subtotal

Quantity

$

x

= $

SUPPORT MADISON OPERA I would like to make a tax-deductible contribution Ticket income only accounts for one-third of the cost of producing opera. Please help us keep opera on the stage in Madison.

Contribution

= $

Subscription Handling Fee (required for all orders) =

$10.00

PAYMENT Check payable to Madison Opera is enclosed. Please charge my Mastercard/VISA/AMEX number below:

TOTAL DUE

$

Exp.

Signature

Sharon Isbin & Isabel Leonard - In Concert Y es, I would like to take advantage of this special subscriber offer! Please send me a redeemable voucher.

Name

Address

City

Day Phone

State

Zip

Evening Phone

E-mail

Mail to: MADISON OPERA • 335 W. Mifflin Street • Madison, WI 53703 • Attn: Patron Services


OF

IN THE

July 25, 2015 | Garner Park

A Madison Summer Tradition

2015

by Gioachino Rossini April 24 & 26, 2015

BaRBE R SEvil lE

THE

Music and Lyrics by Stephen Sondheim Book by Hugh Wheeler February 6, 7, 8, 2015

The Demon Barber of Fleet Street A Musical Thriller

Sweeney Todd

by Ludwig van Beethoven November 21 & 23, 2014

Fide l i o

2014/15 SEASON

Subscribe today and save!

madisonopera.org | 608.238.8085 |

Subscribers save up to 15% off single ticket prices, as well as saving up to $25 in ticket fees over single tickets purchased through the Overture Center box office. Subscribe to all three shows for the greatest savings — and the most entertaining year!

335 W. Mifflin Street | Madison, WI 53703 phone: 608.238.8085 | fax: 608.233.3431

NONPROFIT U.S. POSTAGE PAID Madison, WI Permit No. 459


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