Minnesota Opera's La Rondine

OCT 6–14

2018–2019 SEASON

Vänskä Conducts Mahler’s Seventh Fri Nov 2 & Sat Nov 3 8pm Osmo Vänskä, conductor

Mahler’s Symphony No. 7—a dazzling journey from night to day—receives a brilliant interpretation from our own esteemed Mahler expert, Osmo Vänskä.

U.S. Naval Academy Glee Club with the Minnesota Orchestra

Sat Nov 10 8pm Sarah Hicks, conductor

The United States Naval Academy Men’s and Women’s Glee Clubs join the Minnesota Orchestra for an inspiring and heartfelt salute to America’s armed forces and the 100th anniversary of Armistice Day with a rousing selection of patriotic songs, Broadway tunes and soaring choral excerpts.

Anthony Ross Plays Shostakovich Thu Nov 15 11am Fri Nov 16 & Sat Nov 17 8pm Brett Mitchell, conductor / Anthony Ross, cello

Kinetically joyful, Beethoven’s Seventh Symphony represents the composer at the height of his powers, while Shostakovich’s Second Cello Concerto comes to life for the first time ever at Orchestra Hall.

Nat “King” Cole and Me, starring Gregory Porter with the Minnesota Orchestra

Sat Dec 1 8pm Gregory Porter, vocals Vincent Mendoza, conductor and arranger

With a richly textured baritone voice, awardwinning jazz vocalist Gregory Porter brings unique interpretation and lyric soulfulness to original works and classic songs by Nat “King” Cole such as “Mona Lisa” and “Nature Boy” plus holiday favorites like “The Christmas Song.”

U.S. Naval Academy Glee Club

Sarah Hicks

Anthony Ross

612-371-5656 / minnesotaorchestra.org / Orchestra Hall PHOTOS Vänskä, Ross and Hicks: Travis Anderson Photo; Porter: Erik Umphery

Gregory Porter

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THE MISSION OF MINNESOTA OPERA Minnesota Opera changes lives by bringing together artists, audiences, and community, advancing the art of opera for today and for future generations.

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Last year, MN Opera served more than one million people through our work on the stage, education programs, and digital content, including live broadcasts on Classical MPR.

ADS La bohème, 2017 © Dan Norman

In November, our Pulitzer Prize-winning new work Silent Night returns to our stage and will also be featured on eight other stages throughout the world this season.

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Silent Night, 2011 © Michael Daniel

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We were thrilled to have world-renowned opera star Denyce Graves represent us at the Minnesota Twins Diversity Day Game in August.

Denyce Graves with the Miguel Ramos, the Minnesota Twins Director of Diversity & Inclusion Strategy © Darby Lunceford

WELCOME

RYAN TAYLOR PRESIDENT AND GENERAL DIRECTOR

W

F E A T U R E S

elcome to the first production of our 2018–2019 season, the MN Opera premiere of Puccini’s wistful romance, La Rondine. I can’t think of a more appropriate way to start this season, one of our most adventurous and innovative to date, complete with a world premiere, two MN Opera debuts, and the homecoming of one of our most treasured new works. Our Pulitzer Prize-winning 2011 world premiere Silent Night makes its triumphant return this November. January brings Nino Rota’s uproarious The Italian Straw Hat. This March, don’t miss the world premiere of The Fix, and love reigns supreme in May with a new production of Verdi’s timeless La Traviata. Thank you for being a vital part of this special season of music. On behalf of all of us at MN Opera, we couldn’t be more grateful for your continued support. Enjoy the show!

CO N T EN TS 8 La Rondine 10 Synopsis 11 Meet MN Opera 12 About the Opera 13 Director’s Notes 14 Cast and Creative Team

Meet the Artist: Leonardo Capalbo • 17 After exciting performances in Tosca and The Elixir of Love, tenor Leonardo Capalbo returns to charm MN Opera audiences once again as La Rondine’s lovesick poet, Ruggero.

16 O rchestra, Chorus, and Supernumeraries 17 M eet the Artist: Leonardo Capalbo 18 Voices of Opera 20 MN Opera 18–19 Season 21 Silent Night Preview 22 M N Opera Board of Directors, Staff, and Volunteers 23 Upcoming Events 23 MN Opera Information 24 Individual Giving

Voices of Opera • 18 MN Opera’s opera chorus program for singers ages 55+ is building on the Creative Aging movement.

25 MN Opera Gala 2018 27 Special Giving 28 Institutional Giving

LARGE-PRINT AND BRAILLE PROGRAMS ARE AVAILABLE AT THE PATRON SERVICES OFFICE.

Silent Night Preview • 21 MN Opera’s Pulitzer Prize-winning 2011 world premiere returns to the Ordway stage, just in time for the holidays.

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SHADOWS, TEARS, AND LIGHT Oct 6 & 7, 2018

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MY SOUL’S REPOSE Mar 9 & 10, 2019

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MUSIC BY

LIBRETTO BY

Giacomo Puccini

Giuseppe Adami

WORLD PREMIERE AT OPÉRA DE MONTE-CARLO, MONACO, MARCH 27, 1917 Sung in Italian with English translations projected above the stage.

CAST Magda. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C E L I N E Ruggero . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . L E ON A R D O Rambaldo. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . L E V I Lisette. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . L I SA

BY R N E

C A PA L BO

HE R N A N D E Z

M A R I E R OGA L I +

Prunier.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C HR I STI A N

SA N D E R S +

Yvette/Georgette. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M I C HE L L E

L I E BL

Bianca/Gabriella/Off-Stage Voice. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . DA N I E L L E

BE C KV E R M I T +

Suzy/Lolette.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C HR I STI N A

C HR I STE N SE N

Périchaud/Rabonnier.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . N I C HOL AS Gobin/Adolfo.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . STE P HE N Crébillon.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . W M .

DAV I S +

M A RTI N +

C L AY THOM P SON +

Majordomo.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C HR I STI A N

THU R STON +

CREATIVE TEAM Conductor, Ruth and John Huss Chair. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . SE R GI O Stage Director.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

OC TAV I O C A R D E N AS •

Choreographer.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . HE I D I

SP E SA R D - N OBL E

Scenic Design.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

SA R A BR OW N

Costume Design.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M ON TA N A

L E V I BL A N CO

Lighting Design.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . J E SSE

COGSW E L L

Projections Design.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . J OSHUA

HI GGASON

MINNESOTA OPERA MNOPERA.ORG

Hair & Makeup Design.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . DAV I D

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A L A P ON T

ZIMMERMAN

Assistant Conductor & Chorus Master.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A N D R E W

W HI TF I E L D

Assistant Director.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A DA M

DA R OS +

Répétiteurs.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . M A RY BOX + , A L L E N P E R R I E L LO, A N D R E W SU N + Stage Manager.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . JA M I E

K. FULLER

English Surtitles.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C HR I STOP HE R

BE R GE N

+MINNESOTA OPERA RESIDENT ARTIST

•MINNESOTA OPERA RESIDENT ARTIST ALUM

SEASON SPONSOR

ESTIMATED RUNNING TIME

Estimated running time is 2 hours and 29 minutes. There are 2 intermissions occurring approximately 40 minutes and 90 minutes into the opera.

WARNING

The appearances of the Resident Artists are made possible, in part, by the Virginia L. Stringer Endowment Fund of the Minnesota Opera Resident Artist Program.

LA RONDINE 2018–19

The appearances of Levi Hernandez and Danielle Beckvermit, grand finalists; and Christina Christensen, Stephen Martin, Lisa Marie Rogali, Christian Sanders, Christian Thurston, and Wm. Clay Thompson, regional finalists of the Metropolitan Opera National Council Auditions, are made possible, in part, through a Minnesota Opera Endowment Fund established for Artistic Enhancement by Barbara White Bemis.

Minnesota Opera is a nonprofit charitable organization that relies on your support. • mnopera.org/donate

This production contains simulated nudity and simulated cigarette smoking.

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SYNOPSIS

I

MINNESOTA OPERA MNOPERA.ORG

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❝

... love and passion are all the fashions of Paris.”

ACT 2 The customers at Bullier sing, dance, and drink. Magda is accosted by several students.

She dances with Ruggero and they fall in love. Prunier scolds Lisette. The maid recognizes Magda, but Prunier convinces her it is a different person.

They introduce themselves and Lisette confesses to Magda that she borrowed her mistress’s clothes without permission. The crowd showers the four lovers with flowers. Rambaldo appears.

At Magda’s insistence, Prunier hurries Ruggero away.

Rambaldo recognizes Magda and demands an explanation.

She says she loves Ruggero and means to stay with him.

Magda and Ruggero vow their eternal love.

ACT 3 Ruggero and Magda have escaped to a cottage on the Riviera. He wonders how they will pay their bills and confesses that he has asked his parents for permission to marry her. She is overcome and realizes she must tell him the truth. After Lisette’s disastrous and brief stage career and Prunier’s constant criticism, Lisette begs Magda for her old job back, and Magda agrees. Prunier points out to Magda that she cannot live this way forever and transmits a message from “one who would help her.” Ruggero returns with a letter from his parents: They have agreed to the marriage. Magda confesses her past. Fulfilling Prunier’s prediction, she bids her griefstricken lover farewell—and flees back to her former life.

COSTUME RENDERING BY MONTANA LEVI BLANCO

ACT 1 n Magda’s Paris home, Prunier tells the women that love and passion are all the fashions of Paris. He sings his latest composition.

Magda is intrigued, but she is a kept woman, supported by Rambaldo. She accepts Rambaldo’s presents, but admits she does not love him. Magda remembers the night she escaped her ever-watchful aunt and went dancing. She fell in love with a young student, but they parted. Prunier predicts each woman’s future. Ruggero enters with a letter of introduction to Rambaldo. Rambaldo asks Prunier how his guest should spend his first night in Paris.

Prunier scoffs but everyone gathers around, offering sightseeing suggestions.

Magda’s guests take their leave. Prunier meets Lisette in secret. He is fascinated by the maid, he admits. On a sudden inspiration, Magda disguises herself as a grisette and leaves for the cabaret.

MEET MN OPERA

PRITI GANDHI C H I E F

A R T I S T I C

O F F I C E R

What I do:

Why I’m excited about La Rondine:

I help manage the artistic department, give input into the programming and casting of future seasons (as part of the larger creative team), stay on the lookout for artists that we want to add to our future rosters, audition singers for future roles, and work with the other departments in the company to ensure that we’re presenting a cohesive and collaborative message with our programming.

As a long-time performing artist, I’ve sung the famous aria from La Rondine many times, without ever getting to perform the role. The opera is not programmed that often! I’m really excited that, in my first season here, I’ll get to experience this opera over the course of the rehearsal period, and really get to know it better. Magda's aria was one of my favorite pieces from my young artist days, and that opening chord never fails to give me the chills …

MATTHEW ABERNATHY O P E R A

M U S I C

What I do: I do a lot of different things at the MN Opera, but most of the time you’ll see me conducting Project Opera or Voices of Opera. I also teach for Music Out Loud and manage a plurality of our educational ensembles.

Why I’m excited about La Rondine: I grew up as part of an Italian-American family where Verdi and Puccini were

D I R E C T O R

regular fixtures in my house. So anytime that we’re programming Italian opera, I’m there! La Rondine is especially fun because it’s exactly what we expect of Puccini — sweeping melodies, an inventive harmonic language, and a perfect balance of solo, ensemble, and chorus — and yet, it’s rarely performed. With such a stellar creative team and cast, it promises to be a beautiful show.

THERESA MURRAY B O A R D

R E L A T I O N S

D I R E C T O R

What I do:

Why I’m excited about La Rondine:

I serve as the primary point of contact for Minnesota Opera’s amazing Board of Directors. I am fortunate to have the opportunity to get to know this wonderful group of community leaders.

I love a good love story and I am excited to hear Leonardo Capalbo’s performances of this role. Former Resident Artist Octavio Cardenas is one of my favorite people, so I am looking forward to seeing him and his take on this Italian treasure.

Minnesota Opera is a nonprofit charitable organization that relies on your support. • mnopera.org/donate

P R O J E C T

LA RONDINE 2018–19

Meet MN Opera

Minnesota Opera’s dedicated staff of artists, craftspeople, and administrators are passionate about bringing world-class opera and opera education programs to Minnesota. Recently, we sat down with three of them to learn more about what they do at MN Opera and why they’re excited for this production of Puccini’s La Rondine.

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ABOUT THE OPERA

midst of a commission from the Viennese

Puccini (1858–1924) is last in

Carltheatre for La Rondine. Of course,

the long line of Italian opera composers that began with Jacopo Peri in 1600 when he premiered the very first opera, Euridice. For many Americans,

there was no possibility of executing a contract with enemy Austrians and the premiere of La Rondine would not take place in Vienna.

Puccini is not only the last significant Italian opera composer, he is their absolute favorite. While most would likely agree that Verdi is the most respected and Rossini is perhaps the most entertaining, Puccini wins our hearts.

He leaves us breathless with Tosca and Turandot, wringing out our handkerchiefs with Suor Angelica, chuckling with Gianni Schicchi, and heartbroken with La bohème and Madama Butterfly. We are genuinely moved by Puccini operas, and though he is America’s favorite Italian composer, over the decades since his death, we have neglected three of his operas, Le Villi, Edgar, and La Rondine.

Puccini’s first and second operas, Le Villi and Edgar, may not merit professional productions, but La Rondine certainly deserves to be heard. This opera, about a summer romance, does not end in searing fury like Tosca or a tragic suicide like Butterfly, or a bitter, bitter death like La bohème; like Turandot, it has a kinder conclusion. La Rondine has all the hallmarks of Puccini at his very best: it overflows with an unquenchable desire for joy, it is brimming with vitality and heartfelt passion, and it boasts Puccini’s fluid, brilliant, even ecstatic musical language. However, even

MINNESOTA OPERA MNOPERA.ORG

before its world premiere, this opera was dealt a bad hand.

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Puccini hated the very idea of war, and upon hearing the declaration of The Great War he is reported* to have shouted, “War, war! It is the end of civilization!”

On that same day, Puccini was horrified to receive a telegram from his son Antonio announcing that he had joined the armed forces. To make it even worse, Puccini was in the throes of a love affair with a German countess who suddenly found herself an enemy alien and was forced to leave Italy. During this time of clamorous confusion, Puccini was in the

During the course of the war Puccini experienced a precipitous fall from grace.

He would not support this war with his words or his money, and he would not take part in fundraising efforts to support the conflict. He lost many of his best friends, including Arturo Toscanini. Artists from England, France, and Italy, as well as the international press, reviled his operas. After the war, much was forgiven as Puccini donated a great deal of money for the care of injured veterans, but La Rondine didn’t premiere after the war; that opening took place even before the United States entered the conflict.

Puccini finished La Rondine in October of 1915, as the war raged on, but his publisher, Ricordi, refused to publish the opera for a number of complicated reasons, not least that the commission was from an Austrian theatre, so Puccini turned to Casa Musicale Sonzogno, Ricordi’s rival publishing house. Sonzogno published La Rondine and sold the world premiere rights to Monte Carlo, a neutral state, and the premiere took place on March 27, 1917.

Excellent casting aside, upon its premiere La Rondine was attacked as an “enemy opera” by French newspapers, which made it impossible for other companies to take up the work. Puccini’s defense, that the opera was set in France and written in Italian by an Italian librettist, Giuseppe Adami, that the composer was Italian, and that the publisher was an Italian firm, fell on deaf ears. La Rondine was off to a bad start. However, that did not prevent the opera from traveling abroad, and by May it was seen in Buenos Aires to much success. It was next produced in Bologna and then the Teatro Dal Verme in Milan in October. Vienna did not see La Rondine until 1920, but Puccini was not happy with the quality of the production. Puccini would be dead before the Metropolitan Opera and La Scala would mount the work.

One of Puccini’s stated goals for this project was to write a romantic comedy in the style of Der Rosenkavalier (R. Strauss), which premiered in 1911 and was enormously successful, establishing Strauss as a leading opera composer (his earlier operas, Salome and Elektra, were shocking to many). While Puccini’s score does reflect the high gloss of Der Rosenkavalier, as well as its waltzes and conversational moments, what impresses is Puccini’s unmistakable musical language that is unabashedly influenced by the French impressionists, the oriental gestures of Madama Butterfly, and the mayhem of the Café Momus scene in La bohème.

Adami’s libretto, while filled with quick wit and surprising turns of phrase, especially in Act I, also gives vent to lively street talk and very romantic expressions of high-flying love poetry in Acts II and III. Puccini’s conversational tone in much of the opera, while not surprising for Puccini who exercises this kind of intimate exchange in most of his operas, takes the natural flow of language to a new level in La Rondine. The contrast between banter and impassioned melody emphasizes both, and may be a trick he learned from Strauss, as Rosenkavalier exhibits this same device that heightens the high moments by contrasting them with more subdued moments of conversation. This is particularly effective in communicating to the audience in a subtle way the deep unhappiness of Magda in her boughtand-paid-for relationship with the financier Rambaldo.

About a decade ago, a Covent Garden production of La Rondine toured the United States (San Francisco Opera and the Metropolitan Opera), and was simulcast internationally by The Met, but there have also been charming productions by Teatro La Fenice (Venice) and Washington National Opera (D.C.), among others, that have clearly shown us that La Rondine merits a place in the international repertoire. *Puccini, a Biography

by Mary Jane Phillips Matz Courtesy of Larry Hancock, Opera San José

GIACOMO PUCCINI AS PAINTED BY ARTURO RIETTI (1863–1942) | MUSEO TEATRALE ALLA SCALA, MILAN | SCALA/ART RESOURCE, NY

F

or American audiences, Giacomo

DIRECTOR'S NOTES

Donna Shute Provencher beautifully expressed, “Heartbreak is transient, but regret is eternal.” In this production, we focus on two main themes: the ability of regret to shape our lives and its power over the human spirit. Magda, in her desire to pursue a reckless, passionate love affair, finds herself inadvertently learning that true love requires self-sacrifice and honesty. Our telling strives to express the power of what could have been.

Regret forces us to look towards our past, so we decided to present the story as a flashback, through the eyes of Magda’s memories at the outset of World War I. With war on the horizon, Magda finds herself inspired to live for the moment, without consideration of the future

OCTAVIO CARDENAS STAGE DIRECTOR

❝

‘Heartbreak is transient, but regret is eternal.’ In this production, we focus on two main themes: the ability of regret to shape our lives and its power over the human spirit.”

Minnesota Opera is a nonprofit charitable organization that relies on your support. • mnopera.org/donate

In 1914, expectations about essential values for women to uphold, and values important to families were markedly different from today. A love story between a “regular Joe” and a modernday escort, while still largely frowned upon, could arguably find more space in today’s society to pursue a loving relationship than 100 years ago. But there are larger undercurrents in this story that provide an anchor to our ability to relate to this opera today.

consequences. At the end of the war, Magda relives this pivotal period in her life, and considers whether her decisions were the correct ones. She finds herself saddled with the question of, “what if” — if she had the foresight, the knowledge, and wisdom to have made different choices, how would that have affected the lives of those around her?

LA RONDINE 2018–19

W

hen people talk of La Rondine, usually their reaction is the same: beautiful music and difficult plot. Puccini himself had a hard time capturing the spirit of his heroine, as well as the scope of the piece (is it opera or operetta?), and modern audiences have expressed even more difficulty relating to some of the characters’ defining choices due to their specificity in this moment in time.

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C A S T + C R E AT I V E T E A M

SERGIO ALAPONT

LEONARDO CAPALBO

VALENCIA, SPAIN

NUTLEY, NEW JERSEY

CONDUCTOR

Minnesota Opera Debut La Rondine, 2018

Past

RUGGERO

Minnesota Opera Debut L'elisir d'amore, 2015

Past

Lucia di Lammermoor, Teatro Comunale di Ferrara

Les contes d'Hoffmann, Royal Opera Covent Garden

Cavalleria Rusticana, Orchestra dell'Opera Italiana

La bohème, Baden-Baden Festspielhaus

La forza del destino, Las Palmas Opera

Un ballo in maschera, Royal Swedish Opera

Le nozze di Figaro, Teatro Comunale di Ferrara

Carmen, Polish National Opera

Future

Future

Le nozze di Figaro, Teatro Comunale di Treviso

Rigoletto, Royal Swedish Opera

Le nozze di Figaro, Teatro Pergolesi di Jesi

Candide, London Symphony Orchestra

Carmen, Oviedo Opera

Don Carlo, Grange Park Opera Norma, Oper Stuttgart

DANIELLE BECKVERMIT BIANCA, GABRIELLA, & OFF-STAGE VOICE KINGSTON, NEW YORK

Minnesota Opera Resident Artist Past

OCTAVIO CARDENAS STAGE DIRECTOR GUADALAJARA, MEXICO

Minnesota Opera Debut La bohème, 2017

Past

Falstaff, Crested Butte Opera

Maria de Buenos Aires, Pensacola Opera

The Rake’s Progress, Mannes Opera

Turandot, Mississippi Opera

The Fall of the House of Usher, Mannes Opera

Falstaff, Intermountain Opera

Don Giovanni, Hawaii Performing Arts Festival

The Tender Land, Des Moines Metro Opera

Future

Future

Silent Night, Minnesota Opera

Eugene Onegin, LSU Opera

The Italian Straw Hat, Minnesota Opera

Pagliacci/Pulcinella, Opera Orlando

La Traviata, Minnesota Opera

Dead Man Walking, Opera Delaware La bohème, Des Moines Metro Opera

MONTANA LEVI BLANCO

CHRISTINA CHRISTENSEN

ALBUQUERQUE, NEW MEXICO

DE PERE, WISCONSIN

COSTUME DESIGN

Minnesota Opera Debut La Rondine, 2018

Past

SUZY & LOLETTE

Minnesota Opera Debut L'elisir d'amore, 2015

Past

Pipeline, Lincoln Center

La belle Hélène, Opera North

The Bluest Eye, Guthrie Theater

Il Tirinto, Consortium Carissimi

Madiba, Kennedy Center

Die Zauberflöte, Minnesota Opera

Future

Carmen, Minnesota Opera

Fabulation, or the Re-Education of Undine, Signature Theatre Company

Le nozze di Figaro, Minnesota Opera

Eddie & Dave, Atlantic Theater Company

Mendelssohn's Lobegesang, Duluth-Superior Symphony Orchestra

Daddy, The New Group/Vineyard Theatre

Future

Ain't No Mo', Public Theater

SARA BROWN

JESSE COGSWELL

MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA

ST. PAUL, MINNESOTA

SCENIC DESIGN

Minnesota Opera Debut Fellow Travelers, 2018

Past

LIGHTING DESIGN

Minnesota Opera Debut Shoes for the Santo Niño, 2013 (Project Opera)

Past

Hagoromo, American Opera Projects

Falstaff, University of Minnesota Opera Theatre

A House in Bali, Bang on a Can

La bohème, Opera Fort Collins

Carmen, National YoungArts Foundation

Tosca, Opera Fort Collins

Appropriate, Trinity Repertory Company The Lily’s Revenge, American Repertory Company

Future The Day, The Joyce Theater

MINNESOTA OPERA MNOPERA.ORG

Little Shop of Horrors, Trinity Repertory Company

14

CELINE BYRNE

NICHOLAS DAVIS

DUBLIN, IRELAND

PETERSBURG, TENNESSEE

MAGDA

Minnesota Opera Debut La Rondine, 2018

Past

PÉRICHAUD & RABONNIER Minnesota Opera Resident Artist Past Fellow Travelers, Minnesota Opera

Don Giovanni, Israeli Opera

Porgy and Bess, Seattle Opera

Rusalka, Royal Opera House

La fanciulla del West, Santa Fe Opera

Tosca, Mikhaikovsky Theater

Roméo et Juliette, Santa Fe Opera

Future

Future

Madama Butterfly, Irish National Opera

Silent Night, Minnesota Opera

Madama Butterfly, Staatstheater Kassel

La Traviata, Minnesota Opera

Der Rosenkavalier, Ópera Nacional de Chile

C A S T + C R E AT I V E T E A M

LEVI HERNANDEZ

CHRISTIAN SANDERS

EL PASO, TEXAS

WESTCLIFF, COLORADO

RAMBALDO

Minnesota Opera Debut Madama Butterfly, 2012

Past

PRUNIER

Minnesota Opera Resident Artist Past West Side Story, The Glimmerglass Festival

Madama Butterfly, Houston Grand Opera

Silent Night, The Glimmerglass Festival

Florencia en el Amazonas, San Diego Opera

Carmen, Hawaii Opera Theatre

La bohème, Opera Colorado

Billy Budd, Des Moines Metro Opera

La Cenerentola, Lyric Opera of Chicago

Future

Future Silent Night, Minnesota Opera

Enemies, A Love Story, Kentucky Opera

The Italian Straw Hat, Minnesota Opera

Madama Butterfly, Virginia Opera

La Traviata, Minnesota Opera

The Grapes of Wrath, Michigan Opera Theatre

JOSHUA HIGGASON

HEIDI SPESARD-NOBLE

GREELEY, COLORADO

SHELBYVILLE, ILLINOIS

PROJECTIONS DESIGN Minnesota Opera Debut La Rondine, 2018

Past

CHOREOGRAPHER

Minnesota Opera Debut The Merry Widow, 2002

Past

Hansel und Gretel, Teatro Alla Scala

The Shining, Minnesota Opera

King Arthur, Statsoper Berlin

The Nightingale, Minnesota Opera (Project Opera)

Die Dreigroschenoper, Slazburger Festpiele

Ruddigore, St. Olaf College

Future King Arthur, Theater An Der Wien The Infinite Hotel, Prototype NYC

Thaïs, Minnesota Opera Legally Blonde, Artistry Theater

Future

TEDWomen 2018 Conference

The Italian Straw Hat, Minnesota Opera

Dancing the Bears Ears, New York Live Arts

The Fix, Minnesota Opera La Traviata, Minnesota Opera

MICHELLE LIEBL

WM. CLAY THOMPSON

PRIOR LAKE, MINNESOTA

LEXINGTON, KENTUCKY

YVETTE & GEORGETTE Minnesota Opera Debut The Merry Widow, 2002

Past

CRÉBILLON

Minnesota Opera Resident Artist Past La fanciulla del West, Kentucky Opera

The Shining, Minnesota Opera

Don Pasquale, Minnesota Opera

Die Zauberflöte, Minnesota Opera

The Cunning Little Vixen, The Glimmerglass Festival

The Manchurian Candidate, Minnesota Opera

Rigoletto, Minnesota Opera

Madama Butterfly, Minnesota Opera Thaïs, Minnesota Opera

Future

Future Silent Night, Minnesota Opera La Traviata, Minnesota Opera

CHRISTIAN THURSTON

ROCHESTER, MICHIGAN

ROTORUA, NEW ZEALAND

GOBIN & ADOLFO

Minnesota Opera Resident Artist Past

MAJORDOMO

Minnesota Opera Resident Artist Past

Silent Night, The Glimmerglass Festival

Madama Butterfly, New Zealand Opera

La Traviata, Sarasota Opera

Cendrillion, Manhattan School of Music

Lucia di Lammermoor, Santa Fe Opera

Le nozze di Figaro, Minnesota Opera

Future Silent Night, Minnesota Opera

Rigoletto, Minnesota Opera

Future

The Italian Straw Hat, Minnesota Opera

Silent Night, Minnesota Opera

La Traviata, Minnesota Opera

The Italian Straw Hat, Minnesota Opera La Traviata, Minnesota Opera

LISA MARIE ROGALI LISETTE

HAWLEY, PENNSYLVANIA

Minnesota Opera Resident Artist Past Gianni Schicchi, Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music Zémire et Azor, Opera Saratoga My Fair Lady, Fuse Productions Dialogues of the Carmelites, Penn State Opera Theatre Orfeo ed Euridice, Opera Theatre of Saint Louis

Future The Italian Straw Hat, Minnesota Opera Rigoletto, Opera Theatre of Saint Louis

LA RONDINE 2018–19

STEPHEN MARTIN

Minnesota Opera is a nonprofit charitable organization that relies on your support. • mnopera.org/donate

The Italian Straw Hat, Minnesota Opera

15

ORCHESTRA, CHORUS, + SUPERNUMERARIES

MINNESOTA OPERA ORCHESTRA

VIOLA

ENGLISH HORN

TUBA

CHORUS

Emily Hagen* John+ and Nina Archabal Chair

Jeffrey Marshak

Itai Agmon*

Alex Barnett

CLARINET

TIMPANI

Phinehas Bynum

Karrin Meffert-Nelson*

Kory Andry*

Erik Carslon

Susan Janda

VIOLIN I

Laurel Browne

Allison Ostrander

Jenny Lind Nilsson

Concertmaster Cynthia and Lawrence Lee Chair

Anne Ainomäe

Natalia Moiseeva Asst. Concertmaster Julia Persitz David Mickens Colin McGuire Angela Waterman Hanson Heidi Amundson Jill Olson Moser Maisie Block Louisa Woodfull-Harris

VIOLIN II Laurie Petruconis* Elizabeth Decker Melinda Marshall Elise Parker Huldah Niles Emily Saathoff

Matthew Christoff

Jennifer Gerth

PERCUSSION

Cecile Crozat-Zawisza

BASS CLARINET

Steven Kimball*

Carole Finneran

Charles Krenner

Nina Olsen

David Hagedorn

Wesley Frye

CELLO

BASSOON

HARP

Teresa Richardson*

Coreen Nordling* Eric and Celita Levinson Chair

Min J. Kim* Marion Winslow Buchanan+ Chair

Sally Gibson Dorer Rebecca Arons Kirsten Whitson Diane Tremaine Dale Newton

BASS John Michael Smith* Constance Martin Jason C. Hagelie

FLUTE Michele Frisch* Amy Morris Bethany Gorella Double Piccolo

HORN

Hannah Green Michelle Hayes Benjamin Hills Aliese Hoesel Melissa Krueger

Laurie Hatcher Merz

CELESTE

Maggie Lofboom

Mary Box*

Joel Mathias Eric Mellum

Timothy Bradley* Charles Hodgson

* principal

Evan Mitchell

Michael Alexander

+ in memoriam

Kristin Morant Victoria Pace

Jenna McBride-Harris

Sandra Partridge

TRUMPET John G. Koopmann* Christopher Volpe Jonathan Brandt

TROMBONE Phillip Ostrander*

David Block Carol Lebovic

Mark Billy

OBOE

John Tranter

Michael Dayton*

David Stevens

Tony Potts

SUPERNUMERARIES

Cody Schuebel Lindsay Sessing Quinn Shadko

Andy Flamm

Ashley Sievers

Stephen Hage

Nick Swanson

Babatunde Oyewo

Phillip Takemura-Sears

Gary Pye

Jake Thede

Michelle Schwantes

Trevor Todd

Robert McManus

Anne Todey

Sunday, December 16 at 2pm Ordway Concert Hall

MINNESOTA OPERA MNOPERA.ORG

Project Opera and Voices of Opera Winter Concert

16

Join us for a joint concert of opera scenes and choral excerpts from many popular operas. As we celebrate Project Opera’s 15th season, enjoy a sneak preview of our upcoming performances of Brundibár and The Gondoliers, performances from the Project Opera alumni chorus, and a few very special guests.

Odyssey, 2018 © Sigrid Redpath

For more information about Project Opera and Voices of Opera, please visit mnopera.org/learn.

MEET THE ARTIST

MeettheArtist

LEONARDO

CAPALBO AS RUGGERO

What are some of the joys and challenges of performing this role?

LC One of the absolute joys of singing Ruggero is Puccini’s gorgeous music.

As one would expect, his melodies in La Rondine are shockingly beautiful.

Ruggero’s music is especially soothing for the voice, so it makes it a real pleasure to sing. The biggest challenge of Ruggero is that his initial introduction is very brief, so we don’t get to really know him until the second act. This makes his entrance aria so important. I hope to really reveal Ruggero’s essence in that moment, so the audience can’t wait to see more of him.

❝

[Puccini’s]

melodies in La Rondine are shockingly beautiful.”

What are your favorite things to do when you’re in Minnesota? Is there anything you’re dying to try?

LC One of my favorite things about Minneapolis is all the fantastic restaurants.

I can’t wait to get back to Bar La Grassa, The Smack Shack, and Freehouse.

What is the strangest or most surprising thing that has ever happened to you during a performance?

LC During a performance of Un ballo in maschera at the Royal Swedish Opera, I had a startling occurrence one evening.

As if portraying Gustav III in Stockholm weren’t special enough, I performed the final aria from The Royal Box, which is only used by the royal family to this day.

I was given special permission to use it and it is always watched by security.

One night, the introduction music to my piece began and as I entered I came across two masked intruders lurking in the back corner of the box! I had no time to react and proceeded to sing. They whispered behind me, obscured from most of the public’s view, but visible to some. When I exited the box to head to the final scene to see my love and face my death, the mysterious perpetrators seemed to vanish. Security was unable to find them. Gustav III was killed at the Opera at the very masked ball the opera is based upon. Sometimes life really does imitate art.

What do you think audiences would be most surprised to learn about the life of an opera singer?

LC I think people would be surprised to know just how little time I get to spend at home. In 2018, I got only a month at home, and next year I will have only three weeks!

Minnesota Opera is a nonprofit charitable organization that relies on your support. • mnopera.org/donate

LC Sincere, optimistic, naive.

LA RONDINE 2018–19

Describe Ruggero in 3 words.

17

PHOTO BY RJL PHOTOGRAPHY

O P E R A E D U C AT I O N

MINNESOTA OPERA BUILDS ON THE CREATIVE AGING MOVEMENT Whether you have sung in the church choir for years or last sang in your high school choir, V O I C E S O F O P E R A encourages adults ages 55 and older to join with fellow musicians for eight rehearsals and two public performances of famous operatic excerpts and other choral favorites.

Chosen from a highly competitive national field of more than 200 applicants, Voices S NT LICA APP of Opera is one of 15 projects that formed the first group of grantees to partner with Aroha Philanthropies in its Seeding Vitality Arts initiative, designed to support the development and expansion of successful Creative Aging programs.

R OVE

MINNESOTA OPERA MNOPERA.ORG

200

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Creative Aging programs inspire and enable older adults to learn, make, and share the arts in ways that are novel, complex, and socially engaging. The work is driven by teaching artists whose creative process brings joy, connection, improved health and well-being, and a renewed sense of purpose to older adults in community and residential settings.

“It’s one thing to walk around and sing in your most operatic

voice, but it’s another thing to participate with 100 other people and really enjoy it,” said program participant Louis Tiggas. “I think Voices of Opera is a great outreach program in that it allows us to come together as a group.”

Matthew Abernathy, Music Director of Project Opera and Children’s Chorus Master, leads the program. “I was a little nervous about singing for someone who directs in opera, but Matt has been wonderful,” said Andrea Tiggas, who joined the group with her husband. “He’s just easy to sing for and fun to be with.”

“This program goes beyond opera education by recognizing older adults’ capacity to make a tremendous contribution to local culture, not just as a passive audience, but as thinkers and makers of art,

thereby positively altering public perception around age,” said President and General Director Ryan Taylor. “I’m proud that Minnesota Opera can be a leader in the Creative Aging educational movement.”

For more information and to register, visit mnopera.org/voices.

❝

This program goes beyond opera education by recognizing older adults’ capacity to make a tremendous contribution to local culture ...”

The Arts Partnership is a strategic alliance between the four organizations that regularly perform on the Ordway stages.

Together, the Arts Partners manage the Ordway facility, collaborate on joint programming and share resources to provide a world-class venue and exceptional artistic programming for over 300,000 people annually.

Fred C. and Katherine B. Andersen Foundation Hugh J. Andersen Foundation The Katherine B. Andersen Fund Anonymous (2) Nina Archabal Suzanne Asher and Thomas Ducker Jo and Gordon Bailey Patricia Beithon Katie Berg Mary and Gus Blanchard Shari and David Boehnen Priscilla Brewster * Bob Cattanach and Allyson Hartle Birgitte and John Christianson Kent and Dee Ann Crossley The Crosswols Foundation Sheldon Damberg Julia W. Dayton Rebecca and Jay Debertin Annie Deering Dellwood Foundation William and Terry Dircks * Sara and Jock Donaldson Ecolab Foundation Anna Marie Ettel Patrick Garay-Heelan and Erin Heelan Judith Garcia Galiana and Alberto Castillo Jamie Grant and Christine Bird Bonnie Grzeskowiak and Terry Wade Laura E. Halferty Thomas and Susan Handley * Dorothy J. Horns and James P. Richardson Anne and Steve Hunter Ruth and John Huss Mary Ingebrand-Pohlad Sandi Irvine and Family - In memory of Tommy Irvine * Phillip and Ludmilla Isaacson * Diane and Paul Jacobson Lucy Jones and Jim Johnson John and Kathleen Junek The Art and Martha Kaemmer Fund of HRK Foundation

The work of the Arts Partnership is supported by donors to the annual Arts Partnership Fund. We extend a sincere thank you to the following contributors for being inaugural donors to this fund for the 2017–18 fiscal year.

Erwin and Miriam Kelen Barry and Cheryl Kempton Kyle Kossol and Tom Becker David and Laurel Kuplic Mary and Barry Lazarus Cynthia and Lawrence Lee Robert Lee and Mary Schaffner Eric and Celita Levinson David Lillehaug and Winifred Smith Jon and Patty Limbacher Jeff Lin and Sarah Bronson Eric and Mary Lind Steve and Kathi Mahle * Mardag Foundation Laura McCarten McCarthy Bjorklund Foundation at the request of Alexandra O. Bjorklund and Susan and Edwin McCarthy Jeninne McGee Julie McKinley * Rosa Miller * Patricia A. Mitchell Alfred P. and Ann M. Moore Leni and David Moore Marcia L. Morris and Richard L. Miller David and Judy Myers Elizabeth Myers Myers Family Fund of The Saint Paul Foundation Nicholson Brothers Fund of The Saint Paul Foundation Eric Nilsson and Lizabeth Boger Diane Nixa and Kurt Hochfeld Robert Olafson Paul Olson and Mark Baumgartner John and Marla Ordway Deborah Palmer and Ken Rich Bill and Anne Parker * Daniel Pennie and Anne Carayon Jason and Kate Piehl Nic Pifer and Amy McNally Shawn and Elizabeth Quant Karen Quisenberry Carleen Rhodes and Byron Gilman

Christine Sagstetter William and Susan Sands * Christine Sand and William Bluhm Daniel J. Schmechel and Wilhelmina M. Wright * Mary and Christian G. Schrock Kathy Schubert Securian Financial Kim Severson and Philip Jemielita David and Martha Sewall Fred and Gloria Sewell David Smith Kevin and Lynn Smith Nadege Souvenir and Joshua A. Dorothy Carley and Bill Stuber Greg Sullivan and Annie Frazer Kay Savik and Joe Tashjian Ryan Taylor Anthony Thein Norrie Thomas Beth Toso Stephanie Van D’Elden H. Bernt von Ohlen and W. Thomas Nichol Dobson and Jane West Ted and Nancy Weyerhaeuser William White Tim Wicker and Carolyn Deters Scott Wilensky Beth and Bruce Willis Cara and Paul Wilson Justin Windschitl Brad and Colleen Wood John and Judy Wolak Margaret Wurtele * The Arts Partnership Fund is also supported by a portion of the proceeds from the Ordway Spring Fête.

Deepest thanks to these donors for their major support.

Another way to support the Arts Partnership and to make a lasting impact in recognition of your family, friends, or loved ones is to dedicate a seat in the recently built Concert Hall.

For more information visit artspartnership.org/name-a-seat

2018–1 9 S E AS O N LA RONDINE Which life would you choose?

Oct. 6–14, 2018

SILENT NIGHT A moment of peace in the midst of war.

Nov. 10–18, 2018

THE ITALIAN STRAW HAT Brimming with laughs.

Jan. 26–Feb. 3, 2019

WOR LD PREMIER E

THE FIX

Shoeless Joe and the 1919 Black Sox Scandal.

Mar. 16–24, 2019

LA TRAVIATA To live and die for love.

May 4–19, 2019

mnopera.org | 612-333-6669 Silent Night, 2011 ©Michal Daniel.

Pulitzer Prize-winning

A moment of peace in the midst of war.

NOVEMBER 10–18, 2018 Music by Kevin Puts.

Libretto by Mark Campbell.

Based on the screenplay Joyeux Noël by Christian Carion for the motion picture produced by Nord-Ouest Production.

Include Silent N in your ight 3 packag-opera the bes e for t and pri seats ces!

New works have been a part of Minnesota Opera’s DNA from the very beginning. The company’s first production in 1963—Dominick Argento’s The Masque of Angels— was commissioned by The Walker Art Center for its performing arts program, Center Opera. Since then, 47 new operas have debuted at MN Opera, many of them thanks to the pioneering work of MN Opera’s New Works Initiative. Launched in 2008, the NWI formalizes the company’s commitment to artistic growth, leadership, and innovation by supporting a new generation of artistic voices in opera and shepherding the creation of contemporary works from the page to the stage.

from Montreal to Ireland, this towering achievement in music and storytelling stands as a heartfelt hymn to our common humanity and as beautiful evidence of opera’s singular capacity to unite. The opera is based on the screenplay by Christian Carion for the Oscar©-nominated 2005 French film Joyeux Nöel.

This commitment to championing new works continues into our 2018–19 season with the presentation of Silent Night. In November, after several successful productions around the world, 2011’s Silent Night finally returns home to Minnesota, just in time for the holidays. Composed

by Kevin Puts, who won a Pulitzer Prize for Music for the work in 2012, with a libretto by Mark Campbell, Silent Night tells the story of a miraculous moment of peace in the midst of the first World War, when a group of Scottish, French, and German officers defied their superiors in order to negotiate a Christmas Eve truce. Beloved by opera audiences

Librettist Mark Campbell remarked that the core message of the opera is that "war is not sustainable when you come to know your enemy as a person. When you see that the person you might be shooting has a child or a wife or has this life at home and they’re just not the enemy, then it becomes very difficult, if not impossible, to sustain war."

Composer Kevin Puts’ love of cinema affected the rhythm of his opera. “I didn’t want to let go of the audience,” said Puts. “I wanted to keep a grip on them for the entire duration. Some scenes overlap. I wanted to create a sense of dreamlike continuity as you move from bunker to bunker. And that is a sort of cinematic influence.”

The premiere run in 2011 was sold out, so don’t wait to secure your seats.

Get your tickets today for the 2018 remount while they are available at mnopera.org/silent.

TICKETS FROM $25

B O A R D , S TA F F, + V O L U N T E E R S

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

STAFF

VOLUNTEERS

ADMI N I ST RAT IO N

Nina Archabal

OF F ICE RS

President and General Director | Ryan Taylor Creative Advisor | Dale Johnson Director of Board Relations | Theresa Murray Chief Financial Officer | Steve Matheson Chief of Human Resources | Jen Thill Staff Accountants | Christina Davini, Shannon Ratcliff Facility Manager | Steve Mittelholtz Systems Administrator | Tony Ngonekeo

Renee Brown-Goodell

Chair | H. Bernt von Ohlen President and General Director | Ryan Taylor Vice Chair | Nadege Souvenir Secretary | Sharon Bloodworth Treasurer | John Junek

AR T I ST IC DIRECTORS

Ann Drivas Siri Drontle Judith Duncan David Earp Rihab FitzGerald

E DU C AT IO N

Ryan Kantor

Chief Learning Officer | Jamie Andrews Teaching Artist | Pablo Siqueiros Project Opera Music Director | Matthew Abernathy Project Opera Accompanist | Kathy Kraulik Music Out Loud Teaching Artist | Sara Sawyer

Robin Keck

Joan Gacki

Vanessa Abbe

Jeninne McGee

Rebecca Bernhard

Michael McNamara

Sharon Bloodworth

Fayneese Miller

Shari Boehnen

Leni Moore

Alberto Castillo

Kay Ness

Jane Confer

Jose Peris

Jay Debertin

Bart Reed

Terrance Dolan

Mary H. Schrock

Sidney W. Emery

Linda Roberts Singh

Maureen Harms

David Smith

Mary IngebrandPohlad

Nadege Souvenir

Philip Isaacson

Norrie Thomas

DE V E LOPME NT

Mary Lach

J Jackson

Missy Staples Thompson

John C. Junek

Wendy Unglaub

Christl Hutter Larson

H. Bernt von Ohlen

Mary Lazarus

Craig Walvatne

Robert Lee

William White

Natalie Volin Lehr

Margaret Wurtele

Chief Development Officer | Carley M. Stuber Development Director | Mallory Roberts Institutional and Major Gifts Director | Diana Konopka Associate Events Director | Anthony Diaz Development Officer | Nickolas Sanches Development and Corporate Sponsorship Manager | Jeremie Bur Development Operations Coordinator | Jonathan Lundgren Development Coordinator | Charlotte Summers

Jerry Lilquist

Diane Jacobson

Gregory Sullivan

HONO RA RY D I REC TO R S Dominick Argento

Liz Kochiras

Philip Brunelle

TEMP O L I A I SON Kara Eliason Dorsey

TEMPO BOARD OF F ICE RS Chair | Kara Eliason Dorsey Vice Chair | Katie Eiser Secretary | Emily Engel

MINNESOTA OPERA MNOPERA.ORG

Aiden Campbell

Chief Artistic Officer | Priti Gandhi Head of Music | Allen Perriello Company Manager | Roxanne Stouffer Artistic Administration Director | Floyd Anderson Assistant Conductor and Chorus Master | Andrew Whitfield Associate Conductor | Jonathan Brandani Resident Artists | Danielle Beckvermit, Mary Box, Adam Da Ros, Nicholas Davis, Stephen Martin, Lisa Marie Rogali, Christian Sanders, Andrew Sun, Wm. Clay Thompson, Christian Thurston

MAR K E T ING /CO MMU NICAT IO NS

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Michelle "Squeeky" Cadieux

Treasurer | Julia M. Wilcox Audience Development Chair | Sarah Fowler Programming Co-chair | Liz Brenner Programming Co-chair | Aimee Tritt

M EMBERS Carrie Anderson

Kara Eliason Dorsey

Liz Brenner

Julia M. Wilcox

Marjahn Golban

Katie Eiser

Laura Green Chaffee

Alison Jarzyna

Heber Gurrola

Luke Olson

Sarah Fowler

Kate Smith

Emily Engel

KT Thompson

Aimee Tritt

Chief Marketing Officer | Darby Lunceford Marketing Director | Katherine L. Castille Associate Marketing Director | Kristin Matejcek Marketing Manager | Amanda Rodriguez Relationship Marketing Associate | Paige Reynolds Associate Communications Director | Eric Broker Design Manager | Kristin Backman Communications Manager | Rocky Jones Web and Digital Associate | Anthony Iverson Patron Services Director | Greg Campbell Patron Services Manager | Kevin Beckey Associate Patron Services Manager | Karl Annable Patron Services Representative/Performance Supervisor Ian Mercer Patron Services Representatives | Ronnie Allen, Emma Carpenter, Kianna Carter, Carol Corich, David Merz, Elijah Saiger

Diane Gerlach Ryan Gilmer Jessica Grams Merle Hanson Tim Jones

Bebe Keith Kathleen Kitchen Alana LaBissioniere

Joyce Lilquist Tom Logeland Mary McDiarmid Barbara Moore Doug Myhra Candace Osterkamp Heidi Pagano Pat Panshin Laura Schaubschlager Kari Shultz Mary Sheehy Wendi Sott Gina Weiner Barbara Willis

P R O DU CT IO N Chief Production Officer | Karen Quisenberry Assistant Production Director | Julia Gallagher Production Stage Manager | Kerry Masek Stage Manager | Jamie K. Fuller Assistant Stage Managers | Jake Fedorowski, Jerry K. Smith Technical Director | Josh Peklo Properties Master | Jenn Maatman Lighting and Video Coordinator | Raymond W. Steveson Jr. Tech Lighting Assistant | Kit Baumer Production Carpenter | JC Amel Scene Shop Foreman/Supervisor | Mark Maurer Master Carpenters | Nate Kulenkamp, Eric Veldey Staff Carpenter | Max Gilbert Carpenters | Jackson Boever, Troy Dyrstad, Micah Haworth, Madi Smith Lead Scenic Painter | Erica Zaffarano Scenic Painter | Lynn Isaacson, Rachel Madden Costume Director | Corinna Bohren Assistant Costume Director | Beth Sanders Tailor | Yancey Thrift Drapers | Katrina Benedict, Chris Bur First Hands | Helen Ammann, Rebecca Karstad, Kristen Weller Stitchers | Ann Friese, Sara Huebschen, Jadie Nelson, Brandi Mans Assistant Designer/Wardrobe Supervisor | Molly O’Gara Hair/Makeup Supervisor | Priscilla Bruce Hair/Makeup Crew | Lianna Colestock, Corrie Dubay, Emma Gustafson

Minnesota Opera is a proud member of The Arts Partnership with the Ordway Center for the Performing Arts, The Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra, and the Schubert Club.

UPCOMING EVENTS

M I N N E S OTA O P E R A I N F O Minnesota Opera Patron Services 620 North First Street, Minneapolis, MN 55401 612-333-6669

The Italian Straw Hat

OCT. 28, 3PM

Brimming with laughs. An uproarious comedy by the composer best known for The Godfather film scores. After seeing this 1950s madcap romp, you’ll never look at a hat—or a night at the opera—the same way again!

The Sphinx Virtuosi is one of America’s most dynamic string ensembles, comprised of the nation’s top Black and Latino classical string players. Copresented by the Arts Partnership (The Ordway, MN Opera, Schubert Club, and the SPCO).

JAN. 26–FEB. 3

MNOPERA.ORG/STRAW-HAT

MNOPERA.ORG/SPHINX

Opera Insights ONE HOUR PRIOR TO EACH PERFORMANCE Enjoy fun, free, and informative half-hour lectures, hosted by Minnesota Opera artistic staff in Ordway’s Target Atrium.

Come early and get an overview of the characters and music, the historical and cultural context of the opera, and highlights to watch for during the show.

MNOPERA.ORG/OPERA-INSIGHTS

Project Opera Presents The Gondoliers & Brundibár FEB. 8–10 This season features two fullystaged youth operas: The Gondoliers by Gilbert and Sullivan, and Brundibár

by Hans Kraska.

MNOPERA.ORG/PROJECT-OPERA

The Fix MAR. 16–24

Silent Night NOV. 10–18 A moment of peace in the midst of war.

Silent Night recounts a miraculous moment of peace during World War I. The Pulitzer Prize-winning music masterfully juxtaposes the bombastic sounds of war with serene songs from home.

MNOPERA.ORG/SILENT-NIGHT

Shoeless Joe and the 1919 Black Sox Scandal. An opera based on the notorious World Series scandal of 1919, featuring legendary figures such as Shoeless Joe Jackson, Ring Lardner, and Judge Kenesaw Mountain Landis.

MNOPERA.ORG/THE-FIX

Resident Artist Program Jukebox Live APR. 12

Project Opera and Voices of Opera WINTER CONCERT DEC. 16, 2PM Join us at the Ordway Concert Hall for a joint concert of opera scenes and choral excerpts from many popular operas. As we celebrate Project Opera’s 15th season, enjoy a sneak preview of our upcoming performances of Brundibár and The Gondoliers, performances from the Project Opera alumni chorus, and a few very special guests.

MNOPERA.ORG/LEARN

Experience a performance of opera highlights curated by the audience and sung by MN Opera Resident Artists.

Come to the pre-show reception to vote for the arias of your choice in this one-ofa-kind concert!

mnopera.org Visit mnopera.org to watch behind-thescenes videos, read synopses, browse digital programs, and more. Join our e-club to receive special offers and opera news.

Ticket Policies Tickets are not refundable. Subscribers may make exchanges for a different performance or opera up to one hour prior to curtain. Any ticket may be turned back for a tax-deductible donation up until curtain. Call Minnesota Opera Patron Services at 612-333-6669.

Parking Prepaid parking is available for opera patrons at the Lawson Commons Ramp.

Call 612-333-6669 or visit mnopera.org to purchase passes.

Accessibility For patrons with disabilities, wheelchairaccessible seats are available. Audio description will be available for select performances. Please call 612-333-6669 for details and indicate any special needs when ordering tickets. At the Ordway, accessible restrooms and other facilities are available, as well as Braille or large-print programs and infrared listening systems.

Ordway Policies Ordway is a smoke-free facility.

Latecomers will be seated at an appropriate break.

Please have all cell phones and pagers turned to silent mode.

Children under six are not permitted in the hall.

Cameras and recording equipment are strictly prohibited in the theater. Please check these items with an usher.

Food and beverages are available for purchase prior to the show and during intermission. Water and other beverages are allowed in the theater (hot beverages require lids), but food is strictly prohibited.

MNOPERA.ORG/EVENTS

La Traviata MAY 4–19 To live and die for love. Boasting sumptuous, hummable melodies, this beloved opera is a timeless depiction of what it means to live and die for love.

MNOPERA.ORG/LA-TRAVIATA

The phone number for emergencies is 651-224-4222. Please leave seat locations with the calling party.

Lost and Found is located at the Stage Door.

Call 651-282-3070 for assistance.

Minnesota Opera is a nonprofit charitable organization that relies on your support. • mnopera.org/donate

Sphinx Virtuosi: Music Without Borders

LA RONDINE 2018–19

Upcoming events

Regular Hours: Monday – Friday, 10am – 5pm.

Performances: Weekdays — phones open until curtain. Weekends — phones open at 2pm for evening performances and at 10:30am for matinee performances. Minnesota Opera staff will be available at the Ordway’s Box Office 90 minutes prior to curtain.

23

INDIVIDUAL GIVING

I T I S W I T H D E E P A P P R E C I AT I O N that Minnesota Opera recognizes individual donors who have made gifts to our Annual Fund, Fund-A-Dream and Opera Innovate Now Campaign between July 1, 2017 and August 31, 2018. Thank you for making this exceptional art come to life.

BEL CANTO CIRCLE The following lists donors who have made leadership gifts of $10,000+. For more information on Bel Canto Circle membership, please contact Diana Konopka, Institutional and Major Gifts Director, at 612-342-9565.

PLATINUM Patricia Beithon Susan S. Boren Darlene J. and Richard P. Carroll Family Fund of The Minneapolis Foundation Julia W. Dayton Vicki and Chip Emery William I. and Bianca M. Fine Charitable Trust Ruth and John Huss Mary Ingebrand-Pohlad

CAMERATA CIRCLE The following lists donors who have made gifts of $2,500 to $9,999. For more information on Camerata Circle membership, please contact Nickolas Sanches, Development Officer, at 612-3429550.

GOLD Michael Birt Shari and David Boehnen Kenneth and Peggy Bonneville Ann and Glenn Buttermann Judith Garcia Galiana and Alberto Castillo Jay and Rebecca Debertin Maureen and Mike Harms Diane and Paul Jacobson Robert Kriel and Linda Krach Connie and Lew Remele David Smith Nadege J. Souvenir and Joshua A. Dorothy Julie Steiner Virginia L. and Edward C. Stringer

PATRON CIRCLE The following lists donors who MINNESOTA OPERA MNOPERA.ORG

have made gifts of $250 to

24

$2,499. While space limitations allow us to list only those donors of $250 or more, we sincerely appreciate every gift.

GOLD Anonymous (4) Emin and Britny Aklik Floyd Anderson Katherine Anderson Dr. and Mrs. Orn Arnar Ruth and Dale Bachman Christopher Beaudet Carl and Joan Behr Barbara S. Belk

Lucy Rosenberry Jones and James E. Johnson John and Kathleen Junek Mary Vaughan C. Angus* and Margaret Wurtele Wayne Zink and Christopher Schout

SILVER Anonymous John* and Nina Archabal Stephen and Margaret Blake Rachelle Dockman Chase Ellie Crosby – The Longview Foundation Miriam and Erwin Kelen Robert L. Lee and Mary E. Schaffner Luis Pagan-Carlo and Joseph Sammartino Paul and Mary Reyelts BRONZE Richard Allendorf Karen Bachman Sharon Bloodworth and Barrett Johnson Will and Margee Bracken Jane M. and Ogden W. Confer Mrs. Susan DeNuccio Mr. and Mrs. William Frels Beverly N. Grossman Jeannie Holmes

Dorothy Horns and James Richardson Warren and Patty Kelly Margaret V. Kinney Kyle Kossol and Tom Becker Dr. Tom Knabel and Kent Allin Christl and Andrew Larson Kenyon S. Latham Cynthia and Lawrence Lee Eric and Celita Levinson Jeninne McGee Jose Peris and Diana Gulden Rehael Fund – Roger Hale/Nor Hall of The Minneapolis Foundation Mary H. and Christian G. Schrock Greg Sullivan and Annie Frazier John L. Sullivan Dr. Norrie Thomas Mrs. Joanne Von Blon H. Bernt von Ohlen and W. Thomas Nichol William White The Charles A. Weyerhaeuser Memorial Foundation

SILVER An Anonymous Fund of The Minneapolis Foundation Martha and Bruce Atwater Fund of The Minneapolis Foundation William Biermaier and David Hanson Susan Calmenson Jan Conlin and Gene Goetz Page and Jay Cowles Dr. Richard Gregory Susanne Haas and Ross Formell Sharon Hawkins Norton Hintz* and Mary Abbe Anna Kokayeff Ilo and Margaret Leppik Diana Lee Lucker Dr. and Mrs. Alfred Moore Albin and Susan Nelson Sarah and Rolf Peters Margaret Poyner Galbraith Ken and Nina Rothchild Mahlon and Karen Schneider David Strauss Dr. Andrew J. Thomas Stephanie C. Van D'Elden Charles Allen Ward Fund of The Saint Paul Foundation

BRONZE Anonymous (2) Thomas and Ann Bagnoli Alexandra O. Bjorklund Michelle Blaeser Laurie Carlson and William Voedisch Michael and Alexis Christie Rusty and Burt Cohen Gisela Corbett and Peter Hyman Jean Deatrick and Eldon Feist Thomas and Mary Lou Detwiler Ralph D. Ebbott Joyce and Hugh Edmondson Ann Fankhanel Gail Fiskewold Patricia R. Freeburg Mrs. Myrtle Grette Michele Harris and Peter Tanghe Linda and Jack Hoeschler Jean McGough Holten Dr. Arthur and Fran Horowitz Dale A. Johnson Patricia Johnson and Kai Bjerkness Hubert Joly Janet N. Jones Robert and Susan Josselson Lyndel and Blaine King Robert and Venetia Kudrle

David MacMillan and Judy Krow Dorothy and Roy Mayeske Harvey Thomas McLain Velia R. Melrose Sandy and Bob Morris Kay Phillips and Jill Mortensen Betty Myers From the Family of Richard C. and Elizabeth B. Longfellow Mrs. William S. Phillips John and Sandra Roe Foundation Thomas D. and Nancy J. Rohde James and Andrea Rubenstein Janet and Bill Schaeder Frank and Lynda Sharbrough Dorothy Sinha Missy Staples Thompson and Gar Hargens Debra R. Ting Drs. Craig S. and Stephanie R. Walvatne Drs. Greg Weber and James Barnett Ellen M. Wells Nancy and Ted Weyerhaeuser David Wilson and Michael Peterman Carolyn, Sharon, and Clark Winslow Woessner Freeman Family Foundation

David Bjork and Jeff Bengston Drs. Eli and Jan Briones Debra Brooks and James Meunier Stephen Bubul and Lee Lewis Scott Cabalka Joan and George Carlson Barb and Jeff Couture Mike and Stacey Crosby – The Longview Foundation Helen and John Crosson Stephen Davis and Murray Thomas Charles M. Denny Jr. and Carol E. Denny Fund of The Minneapolis Foundation Joan Duddingston David Dudycha and Dorothy Vawter Laura and Tim Edman Holli and Stefan Egerstrom Rondi Erickson and Sandy Lewis Kathryn Fernholz

Brian M. Finstad Salvatore Silvestri Franco Dayna and Ember Frank James and Teddy Gesell Heidi and Howard Gilbert Marsha and Richard Gould Jennifer Gross Thomas and Mary Gross Bruce and Jean Grussing Bill Gullickson Roger and Karen Hale Marion and Donald Hall Anne Marie and Larry Halvorson Nancy A. Harris Stefan and Lonnie Helgeson Don Helgeson and Sue Shepard Barbara Jenkins Bryce and Paula Johnson Mrs. James S. Kochiras Constance and Daniel Kunin

James and Gail LaFave Laurence and Jean LeJeune Natalie Levin and Stephen Gilberstadt Virginia Levy Benjamin Y. H. and Helen C. Liu William F. Long William Lough and Barbara Pinaire Steve Matheson Carolyn Mayo Barbara McBurney Helen McCrossan Patricia N. and Samuel D. McCullough Gina and Sean McDermott Mary Bigelow McMillan* Eileen and Lester Meltzer Thomas P. Murtha and Stefanie A. Lenway Joan and Richard Newmark

GOLD Allegro Fund of the Saint Paul Foundation Mary and Gus Blanchard Terrance and Susan Dolan Sara and Jock Donaldson Alfred and Ingrid Lenz Harrison Mr. and Mrs. Philip Isaacson Mary Ash and Barry Lazarus Kendrick B. Melrose Family Foundation Leni and David Moore Jr./Moore Family Fund for the Arts of The Minneapolis Foundation Kay Ness and Chris Wolohan Elizabeth Redleaf Jesse and Linda Singh Elaine J. Wold

M I N N E S O TA O P E R A’ S 2 0 1 8 G A L A

gala chairs honorary chair

chair

vice chair

Dale Johnson

Mary Ash Lazarus

Mary Schrock

gala committee Alberto Castillo Sarah Fowler Jane Confer Kay Ness Sara Donaldson Nadege Souvenir Norrie Thomas

corporate sponsors

individual tables Mary and Gus Blanchard, Shari and David Boehnen, Peggy and Ken Bonneville, Vicki and Chip Emery, Ruth and John Huss, Lucy Rosenberry Jones and James E. Johnson, Arthur Kaemmer, Christl and Andrew Larson, Mary and Barry Lazarus, Mary Schaffner and Bob Lee, Jill Mortensen and Kay Phillips, Mary and Christian Schrock, Norrie Thomas, Wendy and Paul Unglaub, and Bernt von Ohlen and Thomas Nichol

appreciation 2018 Gala Committee, 2018–19 Resident Artists, Bootstrap Coffee, Daniel Freeman, Kerry Masek, Minnesota Twins, MN Opera Board of Directors, MN Opera Production Team, Luis Pagan-Carlo, Paris Off Script LLC, Pyres Brewing Co., Elizabeth Redleaf, Ribnick Furs, Robin Lehman Glass, Lane Rosenthal, Sazon Restaurant, Sepia Restaurant, Linda and Jesse Singh, Surly Brewing Co., Ryan Taylor, and Norrie Thomas

Media Partner

Hospitality Sponsor

Social Partner

INDIVIDUAL GIVING Brandon and Melissa Novy Derrill Pankow Sally and Thomas Patterson James A. Payne Suzanne and William Payne Suzanne and Rick Pepin Milo Pinkerton Mary and Robert Price Leland T. Lynch and Terry Saario Fund of The Minneapolis Foundation Christine Sagstetter Sampson Family Charitable Foundation Fred and Gloria Sewell Gale Sharpe Cherie and Robert Shreck Kevin and Lynn Smith Daniel J. Spiegel Family Foundation Don and Leslie Stiles Dana and Stephen Strand Ruth and Bruce* Dayton Carley, Bill, Kirsten, and Carolyn Stuber Ryan Taylor Jill and John Thompson Jean Thomson Neal Viemeister and Virginia Kirby David L. Ward G. Marc and Tracy Whitehead Jeff and Joe Wiemiller John W. Windhorst Jr. Jean C. Wirsig* Srilata Zaheer

MINNESOTA OPERA  MNOPERA.ORG

SILVER Anonymous (3) Thomas O. Allen Arlene and Tom Alm Jane and Jamie Andrews Jean Antonello August J. Aquila and Emily Haliziw Jo and Gordon Bailey Family Fund of the Catholic Community Foundation Bryan and Karin Bearss Mr. and Mrs. Judson Bemis, Jr. Gerald and Phyllis Benson John and Cindy Beukema Martin and Patricia Blumenreich Gerald Bradley Larry Brandts Cheryl Brown Thomas and Joyce Bruckner Juliet Bryan and Jack Timm Julie Bucknam Jimmy Burnett Margaret Carlson Brenda Colwill Susan and Richard Crockett Shana Crosson and John Gisselquist Peter Davis and Pamela Webster Danny Della Lana and Steve Hall Maureen and John Drewitz Bruce and Melanie Flessner William W. and Susan G. Gerberich Mark Gilberstadt Walt and Raeanna Gislason Billie Glade

26

become a donor

Ellen D. Grace Charles Hample Russell and Priscilla Hankins John Hogie Steve Horan Burton and Sandra Hoverson Ray Jacobsen Nancy Jones Erika and Herb Kahler Beverly Kasper Jane and Jim Kaufman Fund of The Minneapolis Foundation Mary L. Kenzie Foundation Carole and Joseph Killpatrick Gail Kulick Jonathan and Lisa Lewis Anna Linder Ruth W. Lyons Donald and Rhoda Mains Stuart and Martha Mason Laura McCarten Kris and Bill McGrath Deb and Jon McTaggart Judith and James Mellinger Steven J. Mittelholtz David E. and Judy L. Myers Lucia Newell and Steven Wiese Kathleen and Stephen Olsen Dede Ouren Lana K. Pemberton Jane M. Persoon Marge and Dwight Peterson Karen Quisenberry Joel Rainville and Kyle Olson Lawrence M. Redmond Scott and Courtney Rile Ann M. Rock Liane A. Rosel Christopher Ross Enrique and Clara Rotstein Marian R. Rubenfeld and Frederick G. Langendorf Jon L. Schasker and Debbie Carlson Richard and Carol Seaberg Morris and Judith Sherman Rebecca and John Shockley Bernie and Juliana Simmons Madeline Simon Rhonda Skoby Linda Soranno and Howard Bolter Jon Spoerri and Debra Christgau Dr. David M. Steinhaus Sharon and Thomas Stoffel Warren Stortroen Vern Sutton Craig and Janet Swan David and Jennifer Thomas Katharine E. Thomas Josephine Trubek Kenneth and Kathryn Valentas Cindy and Steven Vilks Elaine Walker Elizabeth Wexler Deborah Wheeler Barbara White Frank and Frances Wilkinson John M. Williams Barbara and James Willis

BRONZE Anonymous (2) Joshua D. Anderson Rolf T. Anderson Jerry Artz Kay C. Bach Susanne and Johan Bakken James and Gail Bakkom Jill and Thomas Barland Longine Beck Sharla and Mark Beithon Bender Vocal Studio Kenneth J. Berglund Sharon Bigot Neil and Tara Bizily David and Diane Blake Allen Brookins-Brown Joan Broughton Renee Campion and David Walsh Alan E. and Ruth Carp Katherine L. Castille Laura Green Chaffee and Matthew Chaffee Shawna Clark Wanda and David Cline Herbert Colwill Michael Connaughton and Marya Dwyer Virginia and Marc Conterato Jeanne E. Corwin Mary Davidson Anthony Diaz Kara and Sean Dorsey Sheryl Ebert Noah Eisenberg Leah and Ian Evison Craig Feathers and Amy Kolan George Ferguson Charlie and Anne Ferrell Terence Fruth and Mary McEvoy Family Fund of The Minneapolis Foundation Carol and Mike Garbisch Greta and Paul Garmers Mark Giga James Glazier Richard and Susan Goldman David Groth Andrew and Tina Grzeskowiak Ms. Kathleen Hannon John Heer Rosmarie and John Helling Arthur and Joan Higinbotham Clifton and Sharon Hill Mr. Darius Homayounphur Brian and Karen Hopps Mark and Kathleen Humphrey Dr. David Ingbar Guillermo Irisarri Mark and Jeanne Jacobson Deborah and Ronald Jans Alison Jarzyna Charlie Johnson Kristine Kaplan Ed and Martha Karels James and Kathleen Karges Michael and Sheue Keenan Barry and Cheryl Kempton

Janice Kimes Nathan Kulenkamp Scott and Karla Lalim Beatrice H. Langford Daniel Lepow Holly MacDonald and John Orbison Stuart MacGibbon Dr. Joan E. Madden Vaciela Manos Jeffrey Masco Kristin and Jim Matejcek Sean McAleer Harry McNeely Sam Meals Laurel and David Mech Adele Mehta John L. Michel and H. Berit Midelfort Eldon and Anne Miller James Miner Linda Morey Mina Fisher and Fritz Nelson Merritt C. Nequette and Nancy Hartung Patricia A. O'Gorman Scott J. Pakudaitis Julia and Brian Palmer Kathy and Don Park Allen Perriello Carol Peterson Patricia M. Peterson Carol Peterson Judith Pettit Anne and John Polta Nicole and Charles Prescott Dennis M. Ready Sara Reed Barton and Kimberly Reed Ann Richter Mallory A. Roberts David and J. Susan Robertson Robert E. Rocknem Ronald Roed Michael and Tamara Root David and Kathleen Rothenberger Nickolas Sanches Mischa Santora Kate Saumur Mary Savina Kevin Shores and Kevin Winge Kathleen K. Simo Michael Steffes Donna Stephenson Anne and Nick Stukas Dan and Erika Tallman Joyce Thielen Marie J. Thomas Susan Truman Catherine Vesley Harry Walsh Greg and Ellen Weyandt John and Sandra White Wendy Wildung Ron Zweber and Peter Scott * in remembrance

and bring innovative opera productions to life.

Visit mnopera.org/transform to give online. Thank you!

The appearances of Levi Hernandez and Danielle Beckvermit, grand finalists; and Christina Christensen, Stephen Martin, Lisa Marie Rogali, Christian Sanders, Christian Thurston, and Wm. Clay Thompson, regional finalists of the Metropolitan Opera National Council Auditions, are made possible, in part, through a Minnesota Opera Endowment Fund established for Artistic Enhancement by Barbara White Bemis.

The appearances of the Resident Artists are made possible, in part, by the Virginia L. Stringer Endowment Fund of the Minnesota Opera Resident Artist Program.

SPECIAL GIVING Lyndel and Blaine King Gretchen Klein* Sally and Bill Kling Gisela Knoblauch* Liz and Jim Krezowski Robert Kriel and Linda Krach Robert and Venetia Kudrle Helen L. Kuehn* Robert "Jim" J. Lawser, Jr. Jean Lemberg* Joyce and Jerry Lillquist Dawn M. Loven David Mayo Barbara and Thomas* McBurney Mary McDiarmid Mildred McGonagle* Mary Bigelow McMillan* Sheila McNally* Mrs. Walter Meyers* John L. Michel and H. Berit Midelfort Susan Molder* Edith Mueller* Kay Ness Richard and Joan Newmark Scott J. Pakudaitis Derrill Pankow Mrs. William S. Phillips Phyllis Price

COMMEMORATIVE GIFTS

Corinna Bohren and the MN Opera Costume Department

IN MEMORY OF:

through their foresight and generosity, have included the Opera in their wills or estate plans.

The following lists donors who have made gifts in honor or in memory of a loved one between January 1, 2018 and August 31, 2018.

Anonymous

Jane Confer

Dale A. Johnson

Lucas Ernst

Ruth and John Huss Karen Finseth Dawn M. Loven Dan Morris

Floyd R. Anderson Nina Archabal Karen Finseth

Winston Kaehler

Peter and Anne Wildenborf

Velia Melrose

Kendrick B. Melrose Family Foundation

David Bjork and Jeff Bengston

Ryan Taylor

Alexandra Bjorklund

Fr. Michael Tegeder

innovate now initiative

$50,000 – $99,999

David W. Schwarz Elaine J. Wold

Ruth and John Huss Carol C. Dittberner

Julia W. Dayton Vicki and Chip Emery Ruth and John Huss Lucy Rosenberry Jones and James E. Johnson Art and Martha Kaemmer Fund of the HRK Foundation Elizabeth Redleaf C. Angus* and Margaret Wurtele

Katherine B. Andersen Fund of the St. Paul Foundation Martha and H. Brewster Atwater Darlene J. and Richard P. Carroll Family Fund of The Minneapolis Foundation Jane M. and Ogden W. Confer Ellie Crosby – The Longview Foundation Sara and Jock Donaldson William I. and Bianca M. Fine Charitable Trust Leni and David Moore Jr./Moore Family Fund for the Arts of The Minneapolis Foundation H. Bernt von Ohlen and W. Thomas Nichol Jesse and Linda Singh U.S. Bank Foundation William White Wayne Zink and Christopher Schout

$100,000 – $249,999

$25,000 – $49,999

The following lists donors who have made generous leadership commitments for new initiatives in education, infrastructure, and community programming. $250,000+

Anonymous Best Buy Foundation Susan S. Boren Mary Ingebrand-Pohlad John and Kathleen Junek Paul and Mary Reyelts Mary Vaughan Wenger Foundation

Joan Knudtson

Maria M. Donovan

Kelly Kaduce IN HONOR OF:

Connie Barnett

Anonymous (2) Richard Allendorf Nina and John* Archabal Mike Birt Will and Margee Bracken Ann and Glenn Butterman Jay and Rebecca Debertin

Carolyn Mayo

George Ferguson

Martha Kaemmer

Cheryl Brown Art and Marther Kaemmer Fund of the HRK Foundation Margaret Poyner Galbraith

Tim Leahy

Pamela Brophy Mary Finstad Mary Flowers Annie Foley Rick Gilmore Daniel Hollihan Judith A. Johnson Dennis M. Leahy

Jose Peris and Diana Gulden Alfred and Ingrid Lenz Harrison Miriam and Erwin Kelen Linda Krach and Robert Kriel Mary Ash and Barry Lazarus Cynthia and Lawrence Lee Mardag Foundation Mary Bigelow McMillan* Kay Ness Jennifer and Chris Romans Robert L. Lee and Mary E. Schaffner Mary H. and Christian G. Schrock Julie Steiner David Strauss

$10,000 – $24,999 Anonymous (4) Karen Bachman Kyle Kossol and Tom Becker Patricia Johnson and Kai Bjerkness Shari and David Boehnen Kenneth and Peggy Bonneville Mrs. Susan DeNuccio Terrance and Susan Dolan Gail Fiskewold The Engh Foundation Susanne Haas and Ross Formell Maureen and Mike Harms Sharon Hawkins Luis Pagan-Carlo and Joseph Sammartino

Brian and Trish Huberty Prokosch Richard G.* and Liane A. Rosel Ken and Nina Rothchild Mary Savina Josef Schermann Frank and Lynda Sharbrough Robert Shearer and Joan Gustafson Drew Stewart Gregory Swinehart and Mitra Walter Anthony Thein Stephanie C. Van D'Elden Mary Vaughan H. Bernt von Ohlen and W. Thomas Nichol Jean C. Wirsig* Richard Zgodava* William White Philip Oxman and Harvey Zuckman * in remembrance

For more information on making estate plan arrangements, please contact Mallory Roberts, Development Director, at 612-342-9566.

Paula Leahy Mark Mallander Edward Ophelan Laurel Pohtilla June Rodysill Gretchen Shanight

Jerry LeFevre

Jennifer Gross

Diana E. Murphy

Emily Brower Sara and Jock Donaldson Miriam and Erwin Kelen Judy Lebedoff and Hugh Klein Mary Krska Edward Kuske Paul A. Magnuson United States District Court of Minnesota Mary Vaughan Dan Weiner Ann C. Williams

Ann M. Wilhelmy Vaciela Manos

Mr. and Mrs. Philip Isaacson Margaret V. Kinney Dr. Tom Knabel and Kent Allin Kenyon S. Latham Eric and Celita Levinson Albin and Susan Nelson Chris Larsen and Scott Peterson Rehael Fund – Roger Hall Nor Hall of The Minneapolis Foundation Connie and Lew Remele Don and Patricia Romanaggi Nadege J. Souvenir and Joshua A. Dorothy Virginia L. and Edward C. Stringer John Sullivan Dr. Andrew J. Thomas Joanne Von Blon Elaine J. Wold * in remembrance

Minnesota Opera is a nonprofit charitable organization that relies on your support. • mnopera.org/donate

Anonymous (4) Norton Hintz* and Mary Abbe Paul and Val Ackerman Thomas Allen Cordelia Anderson and John Humleker Dr. and Mrs. Rolf Andreassen* Mary A. Andres Anonymous Karen Bachman Thomas and Ann Bagnoli Randolph G. Baier* Mrs. Harvey O. Beek* Patricia Beithon Barbara and Sandi Bemis* Dr. Lee A. Borah, Jr.* Susan S. Boren Al Bradley C.T. Bundy II Margaret M. Carasik Joan and George Carlson Robin J. Carpenter*

Darlene J. and Richard P. Carroll Julia and Dan Cross Julia W. Dayton Charles M. Denny Jr. and Carol E. Denny George* and Susan Doty Rudolph Driscoll* Anne P. Ducharme Rondi Erickson and Sandy Lewis Ester Fesler Dr. Paul Froeschl Katy Gaynor Nettie Grabscheid* Robert* and Ellen Green Dr. Ieva M. Grundmanis* Michelle Hackett Russell and Priscilla Hankins Julia Hanna* Frederick J. Hey, Jr.* Elfrieda Hintze Jean McGough Holten Charles J. Hudgins* Ruth Jones* Charles and Sally Jorgensen Robert and Susan Josselson Charlotte* and Markle Karlen Mary H. Keithahn Warren and Patty Kelly Margaret Kilroe Trust*

The following lists donors who,

F L X : I I

LA RONDINE 2018–19

LEGACY CIRCLE

@MNOPERA

27

INSTITUTIONAL GIVING MINNESOTA OPERA G R A T E F U L LY A C K N O W L E D G E S ITS MAJOR INSTITUTIONAL SUPPORTERS: $ 1 0 0,0 0 0 +

This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a Minnesota State Arts Board Operating Support grant, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the arts and cultural heritage fund.

Art and Martha Kaemmer Fund of the HRK Foundation THE ANDREW W.

MELLON FOUNDATION

$ 50,0 0 0 – $ 9 9, 9 9 9

$ 2 5,0 0 0 – $ 49, 9 9 9

$ 1 0,0 0 0 – $ 24, 9 9 9

Rahr Foundation

Fred C. and Katherine B. Andersen Foundation

MAHADH Fund of the HRK Foundation

MINNESOTA OPERA MNOPERA.ORG

$5,0 0 0 – $9,999

28

The Aaron Copland Fund for Music Inc. Boss Foundation Dellwood Foundation Faegre Baker Daniels Hardenbergh Foundation Harlan Boss Foundation for the Arts Anna M. Heilmaier Charitable Foundation R.C. Lilly Foundation Mayo Clinic

Rahr Corporation Rahr Foundation RBC Wealth Management Schwegman, Lundberg & Woessner P.A. St. Paul Cultural STAR Thomson Reuters Travelers Foundation Xcel Energy

$ 2 , 50 0 – $ 4, 9 9 9

$ 2 50 – $ 2 , 49 9

Anonymous Amphion Foundation Hutter Family Foundation Kitselman Foundation Margaret Rivers Fund The Elizabeth C. Quinlan Foundation Tennant Foundation Twin Cities Opera Guild

Anonymous Carlson Family Foundation Enterprise Holdings Foundation Onan Family Foundation Sit Investment Foundation Wells Fargo Insurance Services

For more information about making a corporate or foundation contribution to Minnesota Opera, please contact Diana Konopka at dkonopka@mnopera.org or 612-342-9565.

MINNESOTA OPERA SPONSORS SEASON SPONSOR

OFFICIAL MAKE-UP PARTNER

OFFICIAL HOTEL OF MINNESOTA OPERA

IN-KIND

MEDIA PARTNER

Oct 7 Oct 14 Oct 21 Oct 28 Nov 2 Nov 4 Nov 11 Nov 18 Nov 25 Dec 24/25 Dec 30 Jan 6 Jan 13 Jan 20 Jan 27 Feb 3 Feb 10 Feb 17 Feb 24 Mar 3 Apr 21 Apr 28 May 5 May 12 May 19 May 26 June 2 Jun 9

(Re)Opening Dec. 2, 2018 st. paul | mmaa.org | FREE Artwork: Ta-Coumba Aiken, Mother Spirit (detail), 1996.

Coll. Minnesota Museum of American Art.

GRAND OPENING EVENTS SPONSORED BY

MEDIA SPONSORS

Mozart, Missa Brevis in D Haydn, Paukenmesse Mozart, Mass in C Beethoven, Mass in C Mozart, Requiem Mass (7:30pm) Haydn, Nikolaimesse Dvořák, Mass in D Schubert, Mass in B-flat Haydn, Nelsonmesse Mozart, Coronation Mass Christmas Midnight Mass Schubert, Mass in G Mozart, Piccolomini Mass Haydn, Theresienmesse Gounod, Saint Cecilia Mass Haydn, Kleine Orgelsolomesse Mozart, Missa Brevis in F Schubert, Mass in C Mozart, Spatzenmesse Haydn, Mariazellermesse Rheinberger, Mass in C Haydn, Grosse Orgelmesse Mozart, Coronation Mass Mozart, Credo Mass in C major Gounod, Saint Cecilia Mass Schubert, Mass in G Mozart, Trinitatis Mass Mozart, Missa Longa in C Haydn, Heiligmesse

Twin Cities Catholic Chorale & Orchestra directed by Dr. Robert L. Peterson

at the Church of Saint Agnes 548 Lafond Avenue Saint Paul, MN 55103 www.catholicchorale.org

Latin Mass at 10:00 a.m.

Each Sunday

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T T Y 6 5 1 . 2 8 2 . 3 1 0 0 Accessibility services are scheduled for select performances and available upon request. For more information visit Ordway.org/access

Elf sponsored by

Spamalot sponsored by

Generous support for 42nd Street is provided

by Marcia L. Morris

Broadway Series sponsored by

SUBSCRIBER EXCLUSIVE

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2018 -19 Season

Tickets on sale at jsballet.org October 26-28 Fall - Dynamic Rhythms

February 16 Romance Dance

December 7-22 Nutcracker (not so) Suite

March 29-31 Spring - Fresh Take

Oxford proudly supports Minnesota Opera.

Oxford is independent and unbiased — and always will be.

We are committed to providing multi-generational estate planning advice and forward-thinking investment solutions to families and institutions.

CHICAGO F CINCINNATI F GRAND RAPIDS F INDIANAPOLIS F TWIN CITIES 612.379.4500 F WWW.OFGLTD.COM/MNOPERA