New Orleans Opera Association - The Marriage of Figaro 2023 Program

This program is produced for the New Orleans Opera Association by:

Renaissance Publishing, LLC

110 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Ste. 123

Metairie, LA 70005

(504) 828-1380 | myneworleans.com

New Orleans Opera Association

2504 Prytania Street

New Orleans, LA 70130

(504) 529-2278 | Fax (504) 529-7668

neworleansopera.org

Executive Editor

Janet Wilson

Editor Ashley McLellan

Art Director

Ali Sullivan

Senior Account Executive

Brooke Genusa

Production Manager

Rosa Balaguer Arostegui

Production Designers

Meghan Rooney, Ashley Pemberton

Chief Executive Officer

Todd Matherne

Copyright 2023 New Orleans Opera Association and Renaissance Publishing, LLC. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the consent of the publisher.

© New Orleans Opera Association

WELCOME

Dear Friends,

It is with great excitement and immense pleasure that I extend to you a warm welcome to the New Orleans Opera’s much-anticipated season opening production of Mozart’s timeless masterpiece, The Marriage of Figaro

As we embark on this remarkable journey into the world of enchanting music and captivating storytelling, we are reminded of the power of opera to transcend time and culture, touching the depths of our souls. Mozart’s brilliant composition intertwines laughter and drama, showcasing the complexity of human relationships with wit, charm, and musical brilliance.

We’ve brought together a stellar cast of internationally acclaimed performers, the fantastic musicians of the LPO, and a design team who have created an experience that promises to be both exquisite and unforgettable. Through this production, we celebrate not only the genius of Mozart, but also the community spirit and love of the arts that brings us all together.

As we raise the curtain on this new season, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to our patrons, supporters, and partners who have made this journey possible. Your unwavering commitment to the arts continues to inspire and uplift us.

May the magic of The Marriage of Figaro sweep you off your feet, carrying you into a world of enchantment and emotion. Thank you for joining us in this grand celebration of music and storytelling. With deepest appreciation,

Dear Friends,

As we embark upon a new opera season, I would like to extend a warm welcome to each one of you - both returning patrons and newcomers. I am excited to join you on the upcoming journeys this season’s operas promise.

This year, we are especially thrilled to open 2023-2024 with the timeless opera, The Marriage of Figaro. Beyond its lyrical beauty, Figaro’s exploration of social, political and revolutionary themes resonates profoundly in today’s world. It serves as a reminder that the echoes of history continue to shape our present, urging us to question ingrained traditions and evolve with understanding. Our other upcoming productions, including Jeanine Tesori’s Blue, a one-night-only concert with internationally renowned soprano Lisette Oropesa, and Donizetti’s Lucia di Lammermoor, all promise to inspire, enlighten, challenge, entertain and enrich us.

Your involvement – as subscribers, as donors, and as participants – is vital to our ongoing mission to continue producing operas of the highest artistic quality. Being present and engaged with live performances is a powerful experience that I look forward to sharing with you today and throughout the season. Thank you for your support of New Orleans Opera and the work that we do both here in the theater and in the greater New Orleans area community.

Warmest regards,

Clare Burovac General and Artistic Director New Orleans Opera

Emmet Geary, Jr. Board President

NOOA BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Mr. Emmet Geary, Jr. President

Mrs. Mary Albert

Vice President

Dr. Nicolas Bazan

Mrs. Adelaide Wisdom Benjamin

Mr. Peter Brigandi

Mr. Joseph Bruno

Ms. Luretta Bybee

Mr. Edgar L. “Dooky” Chase III

Mr. Arthur A. Crais Jr.

Miss Babs Deacon

Dr. Patrick J. Dowling

Mr. Tim Fields

Dr. Constance Gistand

Mrs. Pauline Hardin Secretary

Ms. Sonya Moore Treasurer

Mr. Bruce A. Gordon

Mr. James C. Gulotta, Jr.

Ms. Adrea Heebe

Mrs. Rania Khodr

Mrs. Elizabeth Mahorner Landis

Mrs. Christine LeBlanc

Mr. Edward F. Martin

Mr. Jonathan C. McCall

Ms. Norma Jean McClain

Dr. R. Ranney Mize

Ms. Ann Owens

Mr. Roch Eshleman Development Officer

Mr. Dwayne O. Littauer

Immediate Past President

Dr. Everett Robert

Mr. Gregory St. Etienne

Prof. Cynthia Samuel

Prof. Ron Scalise

Mr. Leopold Z. Sher

Mrs. Harry C. (Claire) Stahel

Mr. Philip Straub

Ms. Catherine Burns Tremaine

Dr. Rand Voorhies

Mr. Joseph Young

NOOA ADVISORY BOARD

Mrs. Virgene Biggers

Mrs. Margie Breeden

Ms. Elizabeth “Liz” Glaser Broekman

Ms. Michelle Butler

Dr. Mark Caldwell

Mrs. Eileen Capritto

Mrs. Kathy Christian

Hon. Jacquelyn B. Clarkson

Ms. Joan Coulter

Dr. R.W. Culver

Mr. Georges Daou

Mrs. Thomas S. Davidson

Mrs. Monique R. Gougisha Doucette

Mrs. Betsy Dowling

Mr. Brooke Duncan

Dr. Charles Dupin

Mrs. Diane Dupin

Ms. Marlene Duronslet

Mr. Elroy W. Eckhardt

Mrs. Melissa Mason Gordon

Ms. Amanda Green

Mr. Douglas Grundmeyer

Mr. Michael Harold

Ms. Melissa Hess

Hon. Bernette J. Johnson

Ms. Givonna Joseph

Mrs. Rose LeBreton

Ms. Lisa Leone

Mr. Frank Maselli

Mrs. Gail McKenna

Dr. Jane Cagan Miller

Mrs. Cindy Mistrot

Mrs. Pat Murrell

Mr. Ernest L. O’Bannon

Prof. Amy Pfrimmer

Ms. Ashley Pradel

Dr. Alan E. Sheen

Mrs. Sonda Stacey

Ms. Diana Stieffel

Dr. Peter M. Tufton

Ms. Debby Hirsch Wood

MASTERSIGNERS

Mastersigners are opera lovers committed to the financial stability of the New Orleans Opera. As major supporters, these contributors also receive benefits including invitations to exclusive private receptions, access behind the scenes to rehearsals, champagne receptions and more. This list reflects cumulative donations received from July 1, 2022 to the time of this program’s publishing.

Première Circle:

$50,000- $99,999

Anonymous

Ms. Laura Donnaway

Mr. and Mrs. Erik F. Johnsen

Mr. Edward F. Martin

Drs. Emel Songu and Ranney Mize

Mr. John G. Turner and Mr. Jerry G. Fischer

Platinum Circle:

$25,000- $49,999

Mr. Henry Bernstein

Mr. Arthur A. Crais, Jr.

Mr. Emmet Geary, Jr.

Ms. Adrea Heebe

Maestro Circle:

$10,000- $24,999

Doug and Mary Albert

Drs. Nicolas and Haydee Bazan

Mr. Peter R. Brigandi Jr.

Mrs. Ellen Frohnmayer

Mr. and Mrs. Bruce A. Gordon

Jay Gulotta and Susan Talley

Mr. and Mrs. Allain Hardin

Mrs. Meredith Hathorn and Mr. Rawley M. Penick III

Mr. Dwayne O. Littauer

Mr. Jonathan McCall

Mrs. Louise H. Moffett

Ms. Sonya Moore

Prof. Cynthia A. Samuel

Drs. Rand & Terry Voorhies

Mrs. Adelaide Wisdom Benjamin

Mr. Joseph Young

Mastersigners:

$5,000 - $9,999

Anonymous

Ms. Jo-Ann C. Adams

Terence Blanchard and Robin Burgess

Prof. Kenneth Boudreaux

Mr. and Mrs. Joseph M. Bruno

Dr. and Mrs. Patrick J. Dowling

Dr. and Mrs. Charles L. Dupin

Mr. and Mrs. Roch Eshleman

Joan Hooper and Julian B. Feibelman Jr.

Mr. Tim Fields

Prof. Robert Force

Dr. Constance Gistand

Mr. and Mrs. Hicham Khodr

Mr. and Mrs. James C. Landis

The Estate of Mr. Robert E. Leake

Mr. and Mrs. V. Price LeBlanc, Jr.

Mr. Donald I. Levy

Ms. Ann Owens

Nina and Lawrence Pugh III

Dr. Everett Robert

Profs. Sally B. Richardson and Ronald J. Scalise Jr.

Mr. and Mrs. Leopold Z. Sher

Mr. and Mrs. Harry C. Stahel

Mr. and Mrs. Philip Straub

Mrs. Catherine Burns Tremaine

Special acknowledgement to Mr. Joseph Young, Jr. for founding the Mastersigners in 1981.

Mary & Doug Albert, Co-chairs of the Mastersigner Program

Drs. Nicolas and Haydee Bazan, Co-Chairs, Maestro Circle

INDIVIDUAL DONORS

New Orleans Opera Association gratefully acknowledges the following individuals and family foundations for their generous support. This list reflects cumulative donations received from July 1, 2022 to the time of this program’s publishing.

To add your name to the roster of supporters, call Director of Development Joanna Sternberg at (504) 267-9526, visit neworleansopera.org, or send your check to New Orleans Opera Association, P.O. Box 52108; New Orleans, LA 70152; Attn: Development Office. Many companies will match employee and retiree gifts – ask your employer for a matching form to submit with your check. Contributions to the New Orleans Opera Association are tax-deductible as allowable by law (tax ID number 720272897). We are grateful for each contribution, and we make every effort to ensure the accuracy of these listings as of the printing/publishing deadlines. To make a correction to your listing for future printings or, if you believe you have been omitted from the donor list, please call (504) 267-9526.

Opera Club Circle: $2,500 - $4,999

Mr. Gregory St. Etienne

Ms. Mary Ann Sternberg

Mrs. Phyllis M. Taylor

Ms. Beth Terry

Patrons: $1,000-$2,499

Anonymous (2)

Dr. and Mrs. Kenneth Adatto

Howard Bautsch

Mrs. Dale Biggers

Dr. Andrea S. Brown

Mr. Ralph Cadow

Dr. William Mark Caldwell

Mrs. Dianne L. Caverly

Miss Babs Deacon

Ms. Laura Donnaway

Ms. Joanna Giorlando

Ms. Jessica Hack

Dr. Robert Hammer

Ms. Sharon Hayes-Roth

Mr. and Mrs. Timothy Hemphill

Dr. Bernard Jaffe

Dr. Peter Kastl

Dr. Nina M. Kelly

Dr. William Long

Mr. Robert Lyall

Ms. Kathleen Manning

Mr. and Mrs. Charles B. Mayer

Ms. Norma McClain

Mrs. Anna Maria Mitchell

Ms. Cynthia Molyneux

Ms. Nell Nolan

Mr. Ernest L. O'Bannon

Mr. and Mrs. Elliott Raisen

Mr. Anthony Rotolo

Mrs. Ann C. Scharfenberg

Mr. and Mrs. Howard E. Sinor Jr.

Mr. and Mrs. Alfred E. Stacey IV

Mrs. Diana Stieffel

Mr. Bernard Van der Linden

Ms. Kathleen Van Horn

Hon. Janis Van Meerveld

Ms. Donna Vitter

Mr. and Mrs. Thomas F. Ward

Mr. Raymond Washington

Mr. and Mrs. Walter H. Weil III

Ms. Dina Zeevi

Patrons - $500- $999

Dr. Martha J. Beveridge

Ms. Margie Breeden

Ms. Natalia Cascante & Mr. Harry Hardin

Mr. and Mrs. Edgar L. "Dooky" Chase III

Mr. and Mrs. Frederick Christian

Mr. Donald M. Clement

Ms. Marlene Duronslet

Ms. Deborah Fallis

Dr. and Mrs. J.M. Fortino

Mr. and Mrs. Bruce Giaimo

Ms. Linda Green

Mr. and Mrs. Seth Harris

Mr. Stuart Johnson

Rayne Martin

Mr. Frank Maselli

Ms. Lisa Mcwhorter

Dr. Christopher B Merritt

Ms. Julie Pfeffer

Hon. and Mrs. Steven R. Plotkin

Ms. Kay Radlauer

Ms. Carol Rausch

Ms. Francisca Sabadie

Ms. Mary Scully

Mr. Eric Simon and Ms. Cathy Lazarus

Mr. and Mrs. I. William Sizeler

Ms. Bianca Spears

Mrs. Betty Speyrer

Mr. David S. Thomas Jr.

Dr. and Mrs. Peter M. Tufton

Mr. Thomas Turnbull and Mr. Darrell Smith

Mrs. Claire L. Whitehurst

Ms. Debra Wood

Mr. Adam Zuckerman

Patrons - $250-499

Dr. and Mrs. Thomas Bonner

Ms. Cherry Bordelon

Ms. Susan Bourgeois

Ms. Georgia M. Bryant

George and Lee Anne Carter

Dr. Gerald Cohen

Mrs. Nancy Collins

Mrs. Joan Coulter

Mr. Anthony Currera

Ms. Stephanie Doughty

Ms. Jill B. Fatzer

Dr. Mary Frances Gardner

Mr. and Mrs. Edward F. LeBreton III

Ms. Elizabeth Liu

Mr. Michael Mancuso

Dr. Jamie M. Manders, D.D.S

Steven McWhorter

Dr. Jane Cagan Miller and Mr. Bruce Miller

Ms. Gail Moore

Ms. Rebecca Moseley

Dr. and Mrs. John R. Page

Dr. and Mrs. John T. Patterson

Mr. and Mrs. Robert L. Pettit Jr

Mrs. Lizette Radovic

Mr. Felix Rando

Ms. Sally Scheuermann

Mrs. Esther Shefsky

Mr. and Mrs. Terrence Sims

Mrs. Dauphine Sloan

Mr. and Mrs. Murray Valene

Mrs. Katherine Vaughan

Mr. Justin Von Andersson

Dr. Robert Weilbaecher

Mr. Adam Zuckerman

Mrs. Rosemary Zuppardo

Patrons - $100-249

Anonymous Donations

Mr. Alex Aho

Ms. Bethlehem K. Andrews

Mr. and Mrs. John Ariail

Ms. Paula Armbruster

Ms. Claudia Baumgarten

Mr. Jack Belsom

Mr. Victor F. Bergeron

Ms. Janie Blackmon

David Bourg

Ms. Charlotte Bracey

Ms. Anne Bradburn

Mr. Patrick Brady

Mrs. Xiomara Brewster

Ms. Bonnie Broel

Bishop and Mrs. James B. Brown

Ms. Aubry Bryan

Marc and Jane Bunnell Embree

Ms. Clare Burovac

Ms. Susan Canavello

Dr. Sarah Carter

Mrs. Julie Condy

Thomas Cousin

Mrs. Esther J. Coy

Mr. Joseph Dagostino

Ms. Yolanda Doucette

Mr. Richard Dunford

Ms. Camille G. Durkin

Mr. and Mrs. Edward D. Edmiston

Mr. Horace English

Mr. and Mrs. John Etter

Dr. Maria J. Falco

Mrs. D. Blair Favrot*

Mrs. Diane Fee

Mr. John Ford

Mr. and Mrs. John Fowler

Mr. and Mrs. Alan Gandolfi

Mr. and Mrs. Dominic Gianna

Dr. Larry Gray

Mr. and Mrs. Michael C. Grumich

Ms. Amanda Hembree

Mr. and Mrs. Bernard L. Hill Jr.

Ms. Sylvia Johnson

Mr. Melvin Jones

Mr. Arthur M. Kastler

Ms. Jyoti Kehl

Dr. Ralph Kern

Mr. Scott King

Mr. and Mrs. James M. Klebba

Mrs. Gina Klein

Dr. Thomas F. Kramer

Mr. Norman Krasne

Mrs. Peggy Laborde

Ms. Saundra Lane

Dr. Edward Levy

Mr. and Mrs. Charles B. Mayer

Mr. and Mrs. James McCarty

Prof. Dugg McDonough

Stacey Michael

Mr. Brian Morgan

Ms. Shirley Morrison

Mr. Benjamin Motion

Dr. Lynne Neitzschman

Stephanie November

Mr. Eric Nye

Mrs. Joan Oppenheim

Mr. David O'Regan

Mr. Freddy Owens

Ms. Jeanne Parrish

Ms. Mary Penn

Dr. & Mrs. Nicholas J Persich

Thuy Pham

Mr. A. Ravi P. Rau

Mr. Kirk Redmann

Ms. Catherine Robbins

Mr. Nicholas Roth

Mimi and Claude Schlesinger

Dr. Janet L. Schmid

Mr. Robert Lawrence Schmidt

Ms. Margaret Shields

Ms. Janice Skow

Mr. Alan Smason

Ms. Adrienne Sparrow

Mr. Jack Sullivan

Mr. Robert Swedberg

Ms. Linda Usdin

Ms. Yvonne Vonderhaar

Mr. and Mrs. Eric Wedig

Mr. James Wesner

Ms. Janet Whittington

Ms. Elizabeth Wilson

EVERYONE BELONGS HERE

EVERYONE BELONGS HERE.

Yes, everyone . In this theater, we are one community coming together to experience this beautiful art form. Say hi to your neighbor. Welcome them. Welcome one another.

COME AS YOU ARE.

The way you present yourself to the world reflects your own identity. You may wish to dress up to come to the New Orleans Opera. You may wish to dress casually. No matter how you dress, you are welcome here.

YOUR EXPERIENCE HERE IS PERSONAL.

You are allowed to laugh, to gasp, to weep, to react. So are your neighbors. This is live theater. The performers share their energy with you, and in turn, you share your energy with them. Everyone must engage for the performance to succeed.

WORDS CAN HAVE A BIG IMPACT.

If you choose to share your opinions (either via social media, with our staff over the phone, or in person at one of our shows) about our policies, productions, cast members or staff, please refrain from using offensive or hurtful language—especially disparaging language that is commonly used to offend marginalized groups. Ask yourself whether what you have to say contributes to someone's well-being or whether it is deliberately destructive.

SHOW KINDNESS.

Show kindness to yourself, to others, and to our staff. New Orleans Opera is a space where creativity, positivity, and joy are all celebrated. Please leave negativity at the door.

COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS

Xavier University & Dr. Sakinah Davis

The Xavier University of Louisiana Music Department has a long and illustrious history of operatic excellence. This history starts in 1934 with former opera singer Sr. Mary Elise Sisson, S.B.S. Sr. Elise, as she is still known, ran a robust opera program providing world-class training and performance experience, including fully staged versions of The Marriage of Figaro, Aida, and Mignon to name a few.

Sr. Elise and Xavier University of Louisiana counteracted the evils of segregation by providing experience, exposure, and entertainment to a large African-American population that was not allowed to attend performances in segregated venues. During Sr. Elise’s tenure, world-class talent was nurtured. She cultivated national and international stars like Debria Brown, Annabelle Bernard, Edwin Hogan, and New Orleans Opera’s LaVergne Monette. These and other artists not only performed but went on to teach and influence generations of artists and educators.

Dr. Sakinah Davis, current Assistant Professor of voice at Xavier University, keeps Sr. Elise’s tradition and spirit alive. You can often see Xavier University of Louisiana music students

at New Orleans Opera functions and performances. They attend as audience members and work as volunteers. Dr. Davis is dedicated to her students having a well-balanced musical performance, learning, and service education. This past season, Xavier students volunteered at every Student Night Out performance and participated in other service projects.

Thank you, Dr. Davis, Xavier University of New Orleans, and Xavier University students. Your dedication to art and the spirit of Sr. Elise has not gone unnoticed.

LOUISIANA PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA

The Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra (LPO) is pleased to play with and support New Orleans Opera because of the shared commitment to the arts and the community. Both organizations are dedicated to providing high-quality performances that enrich the lives of people in New Orleans and beyond. The LPO is the only full-time professional orchestra in Louisiana, and the oldest musician owned and collaboratively operated orchestra in the country. It has a long and distinguished history of being the torchbearer of orchestral music in the region performing a wide variety of music, from the traditional cannon to original contemporary collaborations, and it offers a variety of educational and community engagement programs.

2023-2024

LPO Roster

Matthew Kraemer

Adelaide Wisdom Benjamin Principal

Conductor and Music Director

Violins

Vacant, Concertmaster

The Edward D. and Louise Levy

Concertmaster Chair

Benjamin Hart, Associate Concertmaster

The LPO Volunteers Associate

Concertmaster Chair

Hannah Yim, Assistant Concertmaster

The Ranney & Emel Songu Mize Assistant

Concertmaster Chair

Byron Tauchi, Principal Second Violin

The Helen W. Burns Principal Second Violin Chair

Hayoung Cho*, Assistant Principal Second

Violin

Zorica Dimova

Rebecca Edge

Gabrielle Fischler*

Judith Armistead Fitzpatrick

Janeta Mavrova

Kurt Munstedt+

Elizabeth Overweg

Gabriel Platica

Yaroslav Rudnytsky

Milena Rusanova

Yuki Tanaka

Benjamin Thacher

Kate Withrow

Sarah Yen

Guangnan Daniel Yue

Violas

Richard Woehrle, Principal

The Abby Ray Catledge and Byrne Lucas

Ray Principal Viola Chair

Bruce Owen, Assistant Principal

Amelia Clingman

Peter Dutilly

Sixto Franco

Brianne Lugo*

Catherine Matushek

Tyler Sieh+

Kenny Wang*

Cellos

Jonathan Gerhardt, Principal

The Edward B. Benjamin Principal Cello Chair

Daniel Lelchuk+, Assistant Principal

The Ellen and Stephen Manshel Assistant Principal Cello Chair

Kyle Anderson

Rachel Hsieh

Jeanne Jaubert

Kent Jensen

The Paula L. Maher Section Cello Chair

David Rosen

Basses

David Anderson, Principal

William Schettler, Assistant Principal

Timothy Chen+

Paul Macres

Doug Therrien*

Benjamin Wheeler

Flutes

Ji Weon Ryu, Principal

The Mary Freeman Wisdom Principal

Flute Chair

Patti Adams, Assistant Principal

The Richard C. and Nancy Link Adkerson

Flute Chair

Sarah Schettler

The Edward F. and Louise B. Martin Second

Flute Chair

Piccolo

Patti Adams

The Richard C. and Nancy Link Adkerson

Flute Chair

Oboes

Virginia McDowell, Principal

Jane Gabka, Assistant Principal

Casey Kearney

English Horn

Casey Kearney

Clarinets

Shaquille Southwell, Principal

Daniel Parrette+, Principal

Roy Park, Assistant Principal

John Reeks

E-flat Clarinet

Roy Park

Bass Clarinet

John Reeks

Bassoons

Michael Matushek*, Principal

Hunter Gordon*

Ryan Turano*

Contrabassoon

Ryan Turano*

French Horns

Mollie Pate, Principal

The Jerry W. Zachary and Henry Bernstein

Principal Horn Chair

Josiah Bullach, Assistant Principal

The J. Robert Pope Assistant Principal

Horn Chair

Max Paulus

Kevin Winter

Jonathan Gannon

Trumpets

Vance Woolf, Principal

The Gauthier Family Foundation Principal

Trumpet Chair

Alex Mayon, Assistant Principal

Patrick Smithers

The Pete Wolbrette Section Trumpet Chair

Trombones

Austin Richardson, Principal

Matt Wright

Evan Conroy, Bass Trombone

Tuba

Robert Nuñez, Principal

Timpani

Vacant

Percussion

Aaron Smith, Principal

Michael Metz

Harp

Rachel Van Voorhees Kirschman, Principal

The string section of the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra is listed alphabetically and participates in revolving seating.

+ on leave

* one year appointment

Theo Hoffman, Count Almaviva

RECENTLY:

• Pelléas, Pelléas et Mélisande, National Symphony Orchestra of Taiwan

• Poeta, Il turco in Italia, Staatsoper Hamburg

• Conte Almaviva, Le nozze di Figaro, Israeli Opera

UPCOMING:

• Momus, Platée, Opernhaus Zürich

• Lescaut, Manon, Staatsoper Hamburg

Laquita Mitchell, Countess Almaviva

RECENTLY:

• Soloist, Verdi’s Requiem, Rhode Island Philharmonic

• Julie, Omar, Spoleto Festival USA

• Soloist, Mahler’s Symphony No. 4, Sarasota Orchestra

UPCOMING:

• Soloist, Bach’s Magnificat & Mozart’s Requiem, Oratorio Society Of New York

• Soloist, Sanctuary Road, Virginia Opera

• Soloist, Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9, Chattanooga Symphony & Opera

Anthony Reed, Figaro

RECENTLY:

• Tchélio, The Love for Three Oranges, Des Moines Metro Opera

• Simone, Gianni Schicchi, Florida Grand Opera

• Collatinus, The Rape of Lucretia, Royal Opera

UPCOMING:

• Masetto, Don Giovanni, Opéra de Rouen Normandie

Cadie J. Bryan, Susanna

RECENTLY:

• Jeannette, The Anonymous Lover, The Atlanta Opera

• Mélisande (cover), Pelléas et Mélisande, The Santa Fe Opera

• Woglinde, Das Rheingold, The Atlanta Opera

UPCOMING:

• Soprano Soloist, Messiah, Yavapai College

Sun-Ly Pierce, Cherubino

RECENTLY:

• Sméraldine, The Love for Three Oranges, Des Moines Metro Opera

• Arsamene, Xerxes, Detroit Opera

• Laurene Powell Jobs, The (R)evolution of Steve Jobs, Calgary Opera

UPCOMING:

• Bertarido, Rodelinda, Hudson Hall

• Suzuki, Madama Butterfly, Houston Grand Opera

• Sesto, Giulio Cesare, Spoleto Festival USA

Ashraf Sewailam, Doctor Bartolo

RECENTLY:

• Stage Director, Rossini’s Otello, Central City Opera

• Ferrando, Il trovatore, Pittsburgh Opera

• Hakim, A Thousand Splendid Suns (World Premiere), Seattle Opera

UPCOMING:

• Suplice (cover), La fille du régiment, Lyric Opera of Chicago

• Sparafucile, Rigoletto, Opera San Jose

• Bartolo, Il barbiere di Siviglia, Seattle Opera

• Count Almaviva, Le nozze di Figaro, Cairo Opera

Margaret Gawrysiak, Marcellina

RECENTLY:

• Marquise de Berkenfield, La fille du régiment, Minnesota Opera

• Auntie, Peter Grimes, The Metropolitan Opera

• Marcellina, Le nozze di Figaro, Seattle Opera

UPCOMING:

• Alto Soloist, Verdi's Requiem, Madison Symphony

• Mother Goose, The Rake's Progress, Opera Omaha

Tyrone Chambers II, Don Basilio

RECENTLY:

• Featured Soloist, A Night on Broadway, Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra

• Pasterz, King Roger, Chicago Opera Theater

• Dele Piebald, Quamino's Map, Chicago Opera Theater

UPCOMING:

• Police Officer, Blue, New Orleans Opera Association

• Moderator/Soloist, Andrew Lloyd Webber Musical Gala, Trinity 3for1 Concerts

Orlando Montalvo Avalo, Don Curzio

RECENTLY:

• Camille, The Merry Widow, College Light Opera Company

• Justice Scalia, Scalia/Ginsburg, LSU Opera

• Prince Charming, Cendrillon, Southeastern Louisiana University

Joel Dyson, Barbarina

RECENTLY:

• Featured Soloist, A Celebration of Love and Joy, Riverside Chorale Society at Carnegie Hall

UPCOMING:

• Featured Soloist, Messiah, LPO

Ivan Griffin, Antonio

RECENTLY:

• Luther/Crespel, Les contes d'Hoffmann, Opera Louisiane

• Benoit/Alcindoro, La bohème, New Orleans Opera

• Jack/Orpheus, Let Freedom Sing: The Marian Anderson Story, Mobile Opera

UPCOMING:

• Policeman, Blue, New Orleans Opera

• Assistant Director of The Christmas Spider, Opera Louisiane

• Director of The Christmas Spider, Marble City Opera

Stage Director, Chas Rader-Shieber

RECENTLY:

• The Turn of the Screw, Curtis Institute of Music

• Die tote Stadt, Opera Colorado

• The Love for Three Oranges, Des Moines Metro Opera

UPCOMING:

• L’Allegro, il Penseroso, ed il Moderato, Curtis Institute of Music

• Pelléas et Mélisande, Des Moines Metro Opera

Conductor, Elizabeth Askren

RECENTLY:

• Mozart's Così fan Tutte, The Dallas Opera

• Britten's The Turn of the Screw, Opéra de Dijon

• Britten's A Midsummer Night's Dream, Des Moines Metro Opera

• Rossini's La scala di seta, Opéra national de Paris Académie

UPCOMING:

• Office Hours Residency at The Kennedy Center, Paola Prestini's Sensorium Ex

• Hawaii Opera Theatre, Leoncavallo's Pagliacci

• Master Teacher, The Dallas Opera, Hart Institute (and alumna)

Scenic Designer, Steven C. Kemp

RECENTLY:

• Candide, The Atlanta Opera

• Ernani, Sarasota Opera

• Rigoletto, Utah Opera

Lighting Designer, Connie Yun

RECENTLY:

• La cenerentola, Kentucky Opera

• Trouble in Tahiti / Seven Deadly Sins, Madison Opera

• Samson and Delilah, Seattle Opera

UPCOMING:

• Così fan tutte, Opera Theatre of Saint Louis

• Cavalleria rusticana and Pagliacci, Lyric Opera of Kansas City

• Roméo et Juliette, Opera San Jose Stevenckemp.com

UPCOMING:

• The Boy Who Kissed the Sky, Alliance Theatre

• Wolf Play, A Contemporary Theatre

• The Love for Three Oranges, Des Moines Metro Opera Connieyun.com

THE MARRIAGE OF FIGARO

COMPOSER

CONDUCTOR

LIBRETTIST

STAGE DIRECTOR

Chas Rader-Shieber

Elizabeth Askren

The Jerry W. Zachary and Henry Bernstein Maestro Chair

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart

Lorenzo Da Ponte

FEATURING

Count Almaviva – Theo Hoffman

Countess Almaviva – Laquita Mitchell

Figaro – Anthony Reed

Susanna – Cadie J. Bryan

Cherubino – Sun-Ly Pierce

Doctor Bartolo – Ashraf Sewailam

Marcellina – Margaret Gawrysiak

Don Basilio – Tyrone Chambers

Barbarina – Joel Dyson

Don Curzio – Orlando Montalvo Avalo

Antonio – Ivan Griffin

Peasant Girls - Margaret Branyon-Goodman and Karina Valle

WITH THE LOUISIANA PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA

CREATIVE TEAM & PRODUCTION STAFF

Scenic Designer – Steven C. Kemp

Costume Designer – Myung Hee Cho

Lighting Designer – Connie Yun

Hair & Makeup Designer - Danyale Cook

Technical Director - Keith Christopher

Stage Manager - Brett Finley

Chorus Master / Music Admin. - Carol Rausch

Production Manager - Sarah McCall

Costume Director - Jennifer Johnson

Asst. Stage Manager - Emily Holter

Asst. Stage Manager - Jamie Berry

Asst. Stage Manager – Kiane D. Davis

Asst. Stage Manager – Emma K. Staunton

Asst. Lighting Designer - Brantley McClendon

Property Master - Shelley Irene Dall

Scenic Painter - Nathan Arthur

Technical Assistant – Alyx Jeffries

Wardrobe Lead - Lesly Davi

Rehearsal & Performance Pianist - Sean Kelly

Supertitles Prompter - Beth Rota

Directing Intern - Grace Booth

CHORUS

Seth Board*

Emily Adler Bode

Margaret Branyon-Goodman

Rachel Davidson

Carolyn Deyo

Richard Hofler

Fionn Hunter-Green*

Rafiq Mandal*

Amanda McCarthy

Hugo Pinto

Journey Schaubhut

Hillary Smith

Grayson Stephens*

Karina Valle

Brandon Wear*

Nicholas Yetter*

*Onstage Servants

COSTUMES CREATED BY WASHINGTON NATIONAL OPERA COSTUME STUDIO

SETS BUILT BY NEW ORLEANS OPERA, THE H. LLOYD HAWKINS SCENIC STUDIO

Conductors for New Orleans Opera are generously sponsored by the Jerry W. Zachary and Henry Bernstein Fund for the New Orleans Opera Association.

Student Night Out Dress Rehearsals are made possible with generous support from The Louise Baehr Martin Memorial Fund.

Thanks to Dr. Marcus St. Julien and Loyola University New Orleans for use of the beautiful French double harpsichord.

SYNOPSIS

ACT I, PART I

In Count Almaviva’s estate, his servant Figaro measures a room for a bridal bed for himself and his love, the Countess’s maid Susanna. Figaro is quite pleased with the room, but Susanna professes concerns over its proximity to the Count, who has recently made unwanted advances toward her. Susanna rushes off to tend to the Countess, while Figaro pledges to exact revenge on the Count.

With Susanna and Figaro gone, Dr. Bartolo, both a doctor and a lawyer, enters with Marcellina, his former housekeeper.

Figaro once borrowed money from Marcellina and provided, as collateral, a promise to marry if the sum was not paid off by an agreed-upon time. Bartolo – who resents Figaro for facilitating the Count and Countess’s marriage – has agreed to represent Marcellina. Bartolo departs, and Susanna returns to find Marcellina. The two exchange verbal jousts.

Cherubino, the Count’s page, arrives. As a young man who loves all women, he has caught the ire of the Count, who found him with the gardener’s daughter, Barbarina. Cherubino wants Susanna to ask the Countess to intercede on his behalf, but is interrupted by the sudden arrival of the Count.

Hidden away, he overhears the Count’s demands on Susanna. Basilio, the music teacher, arrives. Now the Count is also forced to hide so he is not caught alone with Susanna. Basilio gossips about Cherubino’s attraction to the Countess. This elicits a reaction from the Count, who jumps from

his hiding place. As he recounts Cherubino’s flirtatious ways, he finds the young man hidden underneath a tablecloth. Furious, the Count recognizes the compromising position he has found himself in; Cherubino has witnessed his conversation with Susanna. Even so, he expresses his rage and dispatches the boy for military duty.

Figaro joyfully enters. He requests that the Count bless the wedding formally. Put on the spot, the Count stalls.

ACT I, PART II

The Countess grieves the state of her marriage. Susanna shares a plan that she and Figaro hatched. They will disguise Cherubino as Susanna and have him flirt with the Count, entrapping him in a compromising situation. Simultaneously, Figaro will send a letter to the Count claiming that the Countess is having her own affair.

Cherubino arrives with a commission letter that needs to be sealed by the Count. At this moment, the Count knocks. Susanna steps into an adjoining room as the Countess locks Cherubino away in the dressing room. The Count senses something is amiss and demands that the dressing room door be unlocked. When the Countess refuses, the Count drags her away with him to find a crowbar for the door. Susanna reappears and helps Cherubino escape out a window. When the Count and Countess return, they are astonished to find

Susanna in the dressing room.

Figaro gathers everyone for the wedding. He is accompanied by Antonio, the gardener, who is upset that someone jumped from the Countess’s balcony, ruining his flowers. Figaro quickly feigns a limp and claims that it was he who jumped. When the gardener produces Cherubino’s commission letter, Figaro claims he was holding it to secure the Count’s seal.

Marcellina, Bartolo, and Basilio enter. They inform the Count of Figaro’s debts. The Count declares that Figaro must marry Marcellina.

ACT II, PART I

Prompted by the Countess, Susanna agrees to entrap the Count in the garden that night. As she leaves, the Count - to his irritation - overhears her tell Figaro that his money woes will soon be over.

Marcellina, Bartolo and their lawyer, Don Curzio, confront Figaro. He tells them that, although he was kidnapped at birth, he is of royal blood and needs the permission of his birth parents, whom he does not know, to marry Marcellina. To prove his royal nature, he reveals a birthmark that Marcellina and Bartolo both recognize. They are Figaro’s birth parents! Moved by the revelation, Marcellina and Bartolo also decide to marry.

Cherubino, dressed as a woman, appears with his sweetheart, Barbarina. Barbarina’s father, Antonio, exposes Cherubino to the Count. Barbarina reminds the Count of the time he seduced her, promising her anything she wanted. Reluctantly, he allows Cherubino to stay.

Meanwhile, the Countess dictates a letter to Susanna meant for the Count. In the letter, “Susanna” asks that they meet that night and requests him to bring the pin, which fastens

the letter. The Countess plans to assume Susanna’s role and surprise the Count.

Figaro assembles everyone for the double wedding. During a dance with the Count, Susanna slips him the note.

ACT II, PART II

Barbarina worries after losing the pin that the Count trusted her to deliver to Susanna. Figaro and Marcellina appear and learn of the meeting. Thinking that Susanna is unfaithful, Figaro rushes off, ignoring his mother’s advice to use caution.

Figaro finds Bartolo and Basilio and tries to recruit them to help thwart Susanna’s infidelity. The two instead refuse and leave Figaro alone, where he stews on what he sees as the inconsistency of women.

Susanna and the Countess arrive, each dressed in the other’s clothes. Figaro himself is hiding. The Countess leaves as Susanna sings of love. She is aware that Figaro is in earshot and enjoys working him into a jealous fit.

The Countess enters again in Susanna’s clothes. The fooled Cherubino tries to seduce her, but is chased away by the Count when he arrives. Figaro now understands the hijinks and joins in, declaring his love for the Countess, whom he understands is actually Susanna. Unaware of the scenario, the Count moves to expose Figaro and the “Countess” when his wife (the real Countess) reveals herself.

When, at last, the Count understands what has transpired, he begs his wife for forgiveness for his wayward ways. The Countess ultimately forgives the Count, and the entire house celebrates the happy end to the eventful day.

A NOTE FROM THE DIRECTOR

It’s always a joy to return to The Marriage of Figaro . There are those certain operas that seem to resonate – to engage with our emotions, regardless of their setting, their time period or even their subject matter. In the end, this amazing depiction of one astonishing day in the lives of a few fascinating people is a tour-de-force of musical/dramatic writing. Mozart and Da Ponte have given us the beginning glimmer of young passion, the charming poignancy of soulmates united, and the bittersweet ending of love fading away before our eyes. And it all takes place in 24 perfect hours!

These funny, flawed, desperate, anxious and supremely human characters represent the very best (and sometimes worst) of us. Separated by almost 250 years, they feel as real and understandable as ever – people trying (against the odds) to connect, to communicate and to find whatever they call love. Sometimes it works, and sometimes it doesn’t.

New Orleans Opera has assembled a truly stunning cast for this production. Each time a new group of singers come together to inhabit these characters, it’s a totally new opera, where the whole is inevitably greater than the sum of the parts. This is why I love to return to this masterpiece – to discover the magic of this one crazy day all over again!

Chas Rader-Shieber, Stage Director

ORGANIZATIONAL & INSTITUTIONAL SUPPORT

New Orleans Opera Association thanks our business, foundation and government partners for their recent support! New Orleans Opera works with each business and community partner to create a sponsorship package that suits your company’s particular needs. Whether you seek opportunities to entertain your clients, corporate visibility at performances, marketing partnerships, or all of the above, New Orleans Opera can assist you. Your sponsorship supports the Opera while providing exclusive benefits and visibility for your company.

GOLD CIRCLE - $100,000+

Lois and Lloyd Hawkins Jr. Foundation

Louisiana Economic Development

New Orleans Opera Endowment Fund

SILVER CIRCLE - $50,000 +

Erik F. Johnsen Family Foundation

Lois and Lloyd Hawkins Jr. Grand Opera Foundation

The Theresa Bittenbring Marque & John Henry Marque Fund

The Ranney and Emel Songu Mize Chamber Opera Series

Edward F. and Louise B. Martin Family Fund

New Orleans Opera Association

Women’s Guild

New Orleans Theatre Association

BRONZE CIRCLE - $25,000+

City of New Orleans/Arts New Orleans

Freeport-McMoRan Foundation

Arts Fund

Opera America

National Endowment for the Arts

New Orleans Tourism and Cultural Fund

Priddy Family Foundation

The Selley Foundation Fund

INTERMEZZO CIRCLE $10,000+

Entergy Charitable Foundation

V. Price LeBlanc Jr. Fund

Lexus of New Orleans

Louisiana State Arts Council/ Louisiana Division of the Arts

McCall Fund

Louise H. Moffett Family Foundation

Wisdom-Benjamin Foundation

BENEFACTOR CIRCLE - $5,000+

An Anonymous Foundation in support of Opera on Tap-New Orleans

Carol B. and Kenneth J. Boudreaux Foundation

Gauthier Murphy & Houghtaling, LLC

The Greater New Orleans Foundation’s Hansen Fund for Arts Technical Assistance

WWOZ

AMBASSADOR CIRCLE - $1,000+

City of New Orleans Mayor’s Office of Cultural Economy

Fidelity Bank

Hancock Whitney Bank

Josef Sternberg Memorial Fund

Louisiana Society of Hearing Aid Specialists

New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival and Foundation

Peoples Health

Renaissance Publishing

The Ella West Freeman Foundation

Van der Linden Family Foundation

WWNO

We gratefully acknowledge matching and in-kind(*) gifts from the following institutions:

1000 Figs*

3 Southern Girls*

Acme Oyster House*

Annunciation Restaurant*

Antoine’s*

Applied Materials Foundation

Atchafalaya Restaurant*

Booth Bricker Fund

Boucherie*

Brennan’s*

Byblos*

Capulet*

Café Degas*

Café Porche*

Carmo*

Criollo*

Dooky Chase Restaurant*

Elizabeth’s Restaurant*

ExxonMobil Foundation

Freeport McMoRan Copper & Gold Foundation

French Market Coffee*

Galatoire’s*

King Brasserie and Bar*

Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra*

Louisiana Pizza Kitchen*

Luzianne Iced Tea*

Merck Foundation

Mr. Mao*

Molly’s Rise and Shine*

New Orleans Museum of Art*

New Orleans Jazz Market*

NOLA Caye*

Palace Cafe*

Pascal’s Manale Restaurant*

Peoples Health

Pho Michael Vietnamese Cuisine*

Picnic Provisions and Whiskey*

Shell Oil Company Foundation

Stephanie Varns, CPA*

Tableau*

Thaihey Nola*

Tsunami Sushi*

Windsor Court Hotel*

Wiley Publishing

UBS Financial Services

Ye Olde College Inn*

Zasu*

PLANNED GIVING WITH NEW ORLEANS OPERA

Help build the future of opera in New Orleans through your planned gift.

When you include the New Orleans Opera Association in your estate plans, you play a significant role in the continued success of top-quality opera and opera education for generations to come. We are happy to assist you in identifying gift options that suit your financial and philanthropic goals – from a simple bequest in your will to a charitable trust or endowed fund.

Planned giving makes great art possible and helps sustain the activities of the Opera Association now and into the future. We thank the current Legacy Society members and invite you to join their ranks by notifying the Development Office that you have provided for the Opera Association in your estate plans. You can also request more information about the many kinds of gift options and underwriting opportunities you may choose to support.

Planned giving instruments can include:

· Outright charitable gifts

· Gifts of appreciated property

· Bequests

· Revocable trusts

· Life insurance

· Retirement benefits

· Charitable remainder trusts

JOIN US! Please consider joining the Legacy Society to help ensure the continued tradition of producing grand opera in America’s first city of opera.

Legacy Society Members

as of September 2023

Anonymous (2)

Drs. Stephen J. & Miriam

R. Bensman

Dr. Patricia Cook

Dr. Maria J. Falco

Prof. Robert Force

Mr. Emmet Geary Jr.

Ms. Jacqueline Mae Goldberg

Mr. Dwayne O. Littauer

Robert Lyall

Louise* and Ted Martin

Drs. Emel Songu and Ranney Mize

Dr. Andrew Orestano

Meredith Hathorn Penick

Nina and Lawrence Pugh

Xenia Krinitzky Roff

Alma A. Slatten

Philip & Eleanor Straub

Mrs. Norton L. Wisdom (Susan)

Ms. Debby Hirsch Wood

MAJOR PLANNED GIFTS

2008-2022

Bequests & Endowed Funds

Garic K. Barranger

The Estate of Abby Ray Catledge, in memory of her father Bryne Lucas Ray

Rose Annette Chisesi

Norma Jean Gross

Lois and H. Lloyd Hawkins Jr.

Albert and Rea Hendler

Gerald Kendal

Victor Leglise

The Estate of Guillermo

Náñez-Falcón

Mary Nell Porter Nolan

The Theresa Bittenbring

Marque & John Henry

Marque Fund

The Estate of James Robert Pope

Rachel Sainton

William M. Sholes

Lynette Askin Stillwell

James G. Viavant

Jerry Walker Zachary

For more information, or to add your name to this list, contact Director of Development

Joanna Sternberg at (504) 267-9526. All inquiries are confidential.

COMMEMORATIVE GIFTS

IN LOVING MEMORY OF:

Mark Rausch

Carol Rausch

Elaine Calamia

Ms. Judith Clay

Kathryn Lear Dorman

Cynthia M. Molyneux

Gladys Gay LeBreton

Mr. and Mrs. Edward F. LeBreton III

Dr. Carolyn Ruth Rudnick Ettinger

Ms. Sharon Hayes-Roth

Virginia Chapman

Doug and Mary Albert

IN HONOR OF:

Rachel Looney

Ms. Janet Whittington

Maestro Robert Lyall

Sarah Jane McMahon

Ranney Mize

Drs. Nicholas and Haydee Bazan

Alfonso Sabadie

Ms. Francisca Sabadie

John Armbruster

Ms. Paula Armbruster

Annette Scott

Ms. Shirley Morrison

Mrs. Betty Brooks

Mr. David S. Thomas Jr.

Mr. Emmet Geary Jr.

Mr. and Mrs. Frederick W. Christian

Mr. A.J. Capritto

Mr. Emmet Geary Jr.

Deborah Green

Ms. Clara Green

Stephanie Sheridan

Ms. Mary Scully

Varla Jean Merman

Alex Aho

Dr. Aysen Young

Mr. Emmet Geary Jr.

Mimi and Claude Schlesinger

Patrick Breeden

Margie Breeden

Mercedes Vulliet Bonner

Thomas and Judith Bonner

Deirdre P. Long

Dr. William Long

Phil Frohnmayer

Ellen Frohnmayer

Ted Martin

Stephanie November and Brenda Stephens

Sonda Stacey

Ms. Elizabeth Liu

Joanna Sternberg

Ms. Mary Ann Sternberg

NOOA

Staff

Clare Burovac, General & Artistic Director

Gina Klein, Director of Operations

Artistic & Production

Keith Christopher, Technical Director

Sarah McCall, Director of Production

Carol Rausch, Chorus Master / Music Administrator

Development

Joanna Sternberg, Director of Development

Courtney Randall, Development Operations Manager

Monty Ramos, Administrative Support

Kristian Vasquez, Development Operations and Special Events Coordinator

Community Partnerships & Education

Tara Melvin, Director of Community Partnerships & Education

Marketing, Communications, & Audience Experience

Janet Wilson, Director of External Affairs

Mariah Forde, Assistant Director of Communications

Devin Johnson, Patron Services Manager

Dylan Trân, Marketing Coordinator

Jenny Chapman, Support Group Liaison

Robert Lyall, General Director Emeritus

IATSE STAFF

IATSE Local #39

Keith Christopher - President

Alan Arthur - Business Manager

Ashley Boudreaux - House Steward

Neil Ingles - Master Electrician

Al Davis - Head Fly

Michael Delacerda - Head Audio

Alan Arthur - Head Carpenter

Fay Martin - Head Props

IATSE Local #840

Theatrical Wardrobe Union

President - Shannon Muhleisen

Secretary/Treasurer - Nancy Macko

Business Agent - Bonnie Haase

Wardrobe Lead - Lesly Davi

Sewing Lead - Stephanie Kuhn

H. LLOYD HAWKINS SCENIC STUDIO

Keith Christopher - Technical Director

Nathan Arthur - Art Director

Shelley Irene Dall - Property Master

Alyx Jeffries – Technical Assistant

Wigs and Makeup Artists

Laurin Hart, Samantha Croon, Eva Reed, and Rebecca Jones

New Orleans Opera is supported, in part, by a Community Arts Grant made possible by the City of New Orleans and administered by Arts New Orleans; by a grant from the Louisiana Division of the Arts, Office of Cultural Development, Department of Culture, Recreation, and Tourism, in cooperation with the Louisiana State Arts Council, a grant from the New Orleans Tourism and Cultural Fund (NOTCF), and a grant from the New Orleans Theatre Association (NOTA).

NOOA SUPPORT GROUPS

The Women’s Guild has been in existence since 1947, serving the mission of “Keeping Opera Alive” in New Orleans. The membership of the Women’s Guild is comprised of women who are dedicated to fostering and promoting the cultural aspects of opera, creating fun and exciting fundraising events, as well as educational efforts, in cooperation with the New Orleans Opera Association.

Sylvain Society is the New Orleans Opera’s Young Professionals affiliate group. Established in 2017, their purpose is to connect the operatic arts to the Greater New Orleans community through events such as their annual Big Wig Ball fundraiser.

FOUNDING SUSTAINERS

Thank you to our Founding Opera Sustainers who have committed to making a monthly donation to New Orleans Opera. Please visit our website if you would like to become part of this group or would like more information. neworleansopera.org/enjoy-the-excitement-all-year

Mrs. Michele Beelman

Ms. Margie Breeden

Mrs. Xiomara Brewster

Ms. Clare Burovac

Mr. Anthony Currera

Ms. Laura Donnaway

Joyce Dugais

Mr. and Mrs. Edward D. Edmiston

Mrs. Diane Fee

Mr. and Mrs. Alan Gandolfi

Mr. and Mrs. Bruce Giaimo

Annie Glover

Mr. and Mrs. Michael C. Grumich

Ms. Amanda Hembree

Ms. Andrea Heming

Ms. Sylvia Johnson

Ms. Jyoti Kehl

Mrs. Gina Klein

Mr. Dwayne O. Littauer

Mr. Robert Lyall

Dr. and Mrs. Christopher

B. Merritt

Dr. Jane Cagan Miller and Mr. Bruce Miller

Ms. Rebecca Moseley

Ms. Carol Osborne

Ms. Mary Penn

Ms. Mary Scully

Ms. Hallie Sheck

Mr. and Mrs. Terrence Sims

Mr. Alan Smason

Dr. Kristi Soileau

Ms. Bianca Spears

Mr. and Mrs. Alfred E. Stacey IV

Mrs. Diana Stieffel

Ms. Deniz Ucar

Ms. Yvonne Vonderhaar

Donnie Watkins

A MOST DELICIOUS RAFFLE!

New Orleans Opera has teamed up with 52 of the best restaurants in the greater metro area to create a one-of-a-kind raffle.

Here's your chance to win Dinner For Two every week for a year!

Tickets: One ticket for $25.00 or Five tickets for $100

The winner will be announced Friday, December 15, 2023.

(Just in time to use for holiday gifts for the foodies on your list!)

Visit www. NewOrleansOpera.org for a listing of participating restaurants.

MOSES HOGAN’S

PIANO

Moses Hogan’s 50-year-old Yamaha grand piano is currently housed at the New Orleans Opera’s Guild Home. The New Orleans composer, pianist, conductor and founder of the Moses Hogan Chorale singlehandedly revitalized the performances of American Negro Spirituals with his dynamic arrangements for both choral ensembles and solo performers. Despite regular attention and tuning, this important instrument now needs more extensive maintenance, including replacing all hammers, damper felt, and other repairs.

In June 2023, New Orleans Opera launched a special campaign to preserve Moses Hogan’s piano. You can learn more about this project on our website: neworleansopera.org/restoring-moses-hogans-piano/ Thank you to the following individuals for their contributions to this important campaign:

Ms. Janice Skow

Mr. Freddy Owens

Ms. Janie Blackmon

The Women’s Guild and the New Orleans Opera Association would like to thank the generous support of our sponsors for the 2023 Opera Ball.