New Orleans Opera Association - Lisette Oropesa 2023 Program

Lisette Oropesa in Concert

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

TABLE OF CONTENTS Welcome

6

Board of Directors & Advisory Board

8

Mastersigners

10

Donors

12

Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra

14

Laffont National Council Auditions

16

Cast and Creative Team

18

Lisette

20

Development

22

Production Manager Rosa Balaguer Arostegui

Staff

28

Support Groups

31

Production Designers Meghan Rooney, Ashley Pemberton

Upcoming Events

38

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

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WELCOME Dear Friends, We are thrilled to welcome New Orleans native, Lisette Oropesa, back to the stage of the Mahalia Jackson Theater for the first time since 2015. In these intervening years, Lisette has taken her place on the world stage as one of the most in-demand lyric coloratura sopranos in the world today, regularly appearing at The Metropolitan Opera, La Scala in Milan, the Vienna Staatsoper, the Paris Opera, and the Royal Opera House at Covent Garden.

Tonight’s concert marks one of only three appearances in the United States this season.

In planning this concert, Lisette is continuing her commitment to the next generation of opera stars who are discovered through the Metropolitan Opera’s Laffont National Council Auditions, which was the competition that was instrumental in jumpstarting her career and “changing her life forever.” As the host of the 2020 Grand Finals, she made a financial commitment to support prize money for winners, and she has made that same commitment to advancement today by inviting recent winners Ashley Dixon, Carlos Enrique Santelli, and Blake Denson to join her onstage in New Orleans for this concert. We may be witnessing the birth of three more international careers this evening!

Thank you for joining us this evening to experience some of history’s greatest operatic arias and ensembles, performed by these incredible singers, and including Maestro Joseph Colaneri leading the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra.

With deepest appreciation, Clare Burovac General and Artistic Director

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New Orleans Opera Association

Dear Friends, It is with great pleasure that I welcome you to this evening’s concert. It is a thrill and an honor to have Lisette Oropesa once again on our stage. We are indeed lucky to have her with us for this evening, as her demanding schedule at the world’s greatest opera houses and her busy recording career have permitted her few appearances in the United States this year.

It has been a great source of local pride to see Lisette receive international recognition for her considerable talent.

When she first appeared with us as a very young singer, many of us felt that she was already a major talent, poised to ascend to the starriest heights of the musical world.

It has been gratifying to see her talent appreciated around the world - even if that means we see her here less frequently.

Joining Lisette this evening are younger singers – recent winners of the Metropolitan Opera’s Laffont National Council Auditions – who are well on their own paths to major careers. The program includes rarely heard works as well as old favorites and New Orleans Opera is thrilled to share this evening of great music with you. As always, thank you for your support, both for the work that we do here in the theater and in the greater New Orleans community.

Warmest regards, Emmet Geary, Jr. Board President

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BOARD

NOOA BOARD OF DIRECTORS Mr. Emmet Geary, Jr. President

Mrs. Pauline Hardin Secretary

Dr. Rand Voorhies Development Officer

Mrs. Mary Albert Vice President

Ms. Sonya Moore Treasurer

Mr. Dwayne O. Littauer Immediate Past President

Dr. Nicolas Bazan

Dr. Constance Gistand

Ms. Ann Owens

Mrs. Adelaide Wisdom Benjamin

Mr. Bruce A. Gordon

Dr. Everett Robert

Mr. Peter Brigandi

Mr. James C. Gulotta, Jr.

Mr. Gregory St. Etienne

Mr. Joseph Bruno

Ms. Adrea Heebe

Prof. Cynthia Samuel

Ms. Luretta Bybee

Mrs. Elizabeth Mahorner Landis

Prof. Ron Scalise

Mr. Edgar L. “Dooky” Chase III

Mrs. Rania Khodr

Mr. Leopold Z. Sher

Mr. Arthur A. Crais Jr.

Mrs. Christine LeBlanc

Mrs. Harry C. (Claire) Stahel

Miss Babs Deacon

Mr. Edward F. Martin

Mr. Philip Straub

Dr. Patrick J. Dowling

Mr. Jonathan C. McCall

Ms. Catherine Burns Tremaine

Mr. Tim Fields

Ms. Norma Jean McClain

Mr. Joseph Young

Dr. R. Ranney Mize

NOOA ADVISORY BOARD Mrs. Virgene Biggers

Mr. Brooke Duncan

Ms. Lisa Leone

Mrs. Margie Breeden

Dr. Charles Dupin

Mr. Frank Maselli

Ms. Elizabeth “Liz” Glaser Broekman

Mrs. Diane Dupin

Mrs. Gail McKenna

Ms. Michelle Butler

Ms. Marlene Duronslet

Dr. Jane Cagan Miller

Dr. Mark Caldwell

Mr. Elroy W. Eckhardt

Mrs. Cindy Mistrot

Mrs. Eileen Capritto

Mrs. Melissa Mason Gordon

Mrs. Pat Murrell

Mrs. Kathy Christian

Ms. Amanda Green

Mr. Ernest L. O’Bannon

Hon. Jacquelyn B. Clarkson

Mr. Douglas Grundmeyer

Prof. Amy Pfrimmer

Ms. Joan Coulter

Mr. Michael Harold

Ms. Ashley Pradel

Dr. R.W. Culver

Ms. Melissa Hess

Dr. Alan E. Sheen

Mr. Georges Daou

Hon. Bernette J. Johnson

Mrs. Sonda Stacey

Mrs. Thomas S. Davidson

Ms. Givonna Joseph

Ms. Diana Stieffel

Mrs. Monique R. Gougisha Doucette

Mrs. Rose LeBreton

Dr. Peter M. Tufton

Mrs. Betsy Dowling

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New Orleans Opera Association

Ms. Debby Hirsch Wood

MASTERSIGNERS

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 August 1, 2022 to the time of this program’s publishing.

Première Circle: $50,000- $99,999 Anonymous 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. Adee Heebe Mr. and Mrs. Robert Priddy Drs. Rand & Terry Voorhies

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

Maestro Circle: $10,000- $24,999 Doug and Mary Albert Drs. Nicolas and Haydee Bazan Mr. Peter R. Brigandi Jr. Mrs. Ellen Frohnmayer 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 Mrs. Adelaide Wisdom Benjamin Mr. Joseph Young

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

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

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Mastersigners: $5,000 - $9,999 Anonymous Ms. Jo-Ann C. Adams Terence Blanchard and Robin Burgess Prof. Kenneth Boudreaux Mr. and Mrs. Edgar L. "Dooky" Chase III Miss Babs Deacon Ms. Laura Donnaway Dr. and Mrs. Patrick J. Dowling Dr. and Mrs. Charles L. Dupin Joan Hooper and Julian B. Feibelman Jr. Mr. Tim Fields Prof. Robert Force Dr. Constance Gistand Mr. and Mrs. Bruce A. Gordon 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 Mr. Frank Maselli Ms. Ann Owens Nina and Lawrence Pugh III Dr. Everett Robert Mr. Gregory St. Etienne Profs. Sally B. Richardson and Ronald J. Scalise Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Leopold Z. Sher Mr. and Mrs. Harry C. Stahel Mr. and Mrs. Kevin Sloan Mr. and Mrs. Philip Straub Mrs. Catherine Burns Tremaine

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INDIVIDUAL DONORS

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 August 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 Ms. Mary Ann Sternberg Mrs. Phyllis M. Taylor Ms. Beth Terry Patrons: $1,000-$2,499 Anonymous (2) Dr. and Mrs. Kenneth Adatto Mr. Howard Bautsch Mrs. Dale Biggers Mrs. Virgene Biggers Dr. Andrea S. Brown Mr. Ralph Cadow Dr. William Mark Caldwell Mrs. Dianne L. Caverly Ms. Ann Duffy and Mr. John Skinner 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

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New Orleans Opera Association

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. Betty and Greg Speyrer 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 John Wettermark Ms. Dina Zeevi Patrons - $500- $999 Dr. Martha J. Beveridge Ms. Margie Breeden Ms. Natalia Cascante & Mr. Harry Hardin 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

Michael Greene Mr. Seth Harris and Ms. Julie Schwam Harris Mr. Stuart Johnson Rayne Martin 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 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

INDIVIDUAL DONORS

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 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. Jonathan Starch 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

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ORCHESTRA

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 canon 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*

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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

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THE METROPOLITAN OPERA ERIC AND DOMINIQUE LAFFONT COMPETITION

The Laffont Competition, an invaluable platform for emerging opera talents, has not only propelled the careers of countless artists, but has also created a bridge between the past and the future of this timeless art form. Lisette Oropesa, a highly regarded lyric coloratura, has taken it upon herself to nurture and support the promising talents discovered through this competition.

Lisette's journey from an emerging talent to a globally recognized artist underscores the vital role of the Laffont Auditions. She fondly recalls how this competition "changed her life forever." In 2020, Lisette hosted the Grand Finals, not only lending her voice but also increasing the prize money for winners through her financial commitment. This dedication continues today as she extends a warm invitation to recent winners to share the stage with her in New Orleans for a special concert.

Sponsored by the Metropolitan Opera National Council and supported by

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members and numerous volunteers from across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, the Laffont Auditions are designed to discover emerging opera singers and provide essential support for their career development. The list of illustrious artists who trace their roots back to this competition includes Renée Fleming, Susan Graham, Stephanie Blythe, Eric Owens, Lawrence Brownlee, and, of course, headlining star, Lisette Oropesa. Additionally, we welcome Jamie Barton, Michael Fabiano, Anthony Roth Costanzo, Ryan Speedo Green and Nadine Sierra to this impressive roster.

Today as we celebrate the remarkable talents discovered through the Laffont Competition, we recognize the essential role this competition plays in shaping the future of opera. Lisette Oropesa's journey serves as an inspiring example of the lasting impact of mentorship and dedication, ensuring the enduring legacy of this art form.

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CAST & CREATIVE TEAM

Lisette Oropesa AWARDS (SELECTED):

• Winner, Metropolitan Opera National Council Auditions, 2005 • George London Award, 2008 • Sullivan Foundation Award, 2008 • Opera Hall of Fame, Louisiana State University, 2011 • Richard Tucker Award, Richard Tucker Music Foundation, 2019 • Beverly Sills Award, Metropolitan Opera, 2019 • Oper! Award for Best Female Singer, Oper! Magazine, 2023 • Chevalier de l’Ordre des Arts et des Lettres, 2023 DISCOGRAPHY (SELECTED):

• Ombra Compagna • La Traviata • French Bel Canto Arias • Theodora RECENTLY:

• Marie, La fille du régiment, Lyric Opera of Chicago • Violetta, La traviata, Wiener Staatsoper • Juliette, Roméo et Juliette, Savonlinna Opera Festival • Lucia, Lucia di Lammermoor, Teatro alla Scala UPCOMING:

• Elvira, I Puritani, Dresden Philharmonic • Cleopatra, Giulio Cesare, Opéra National de Paris • Mathilde, Guillaume Tell, Wiener Staatsoper • Amina, La sonnambula, Teatro dell’Opera di Roma

Joseph Colaneri, Conductor RECENTLY:

• Conductor, Later the Same Evening, Juilliard Opera • Conductor, Roméo et Juliette, The Glimmerglass Festival • Conductor, Candide, The Glimmerglass Festival • Conductor, Rigoletto, Utah Festival Opera UPCOMING:

• Conductor, Pagliacci, The Glimmerglass Festival • Conductor, The Pirates of Penzance, The Glimmerglass Festival

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CAST & CREATIVE TEAM

Ashley Dixon, mezzo-soprano RECENTLY:

• Elgar’s Sea Pictures, Coastal Symphony of Georgia • Elizabeth Van Lew (cover), Intelligence, Houston Grand Opera • Zweite Dame, Die Zauberflöte, Ravinia Festival UPCOMING:

• Adalgisa, Norma, Boston Youth Symphony Orchestra • Adalgisa, Norma, Palm Beach Opera • Zweite Dame, Die Zauberflöte, San Francisco Opera

Carlos Enrique Santelli, tenor RECENTLY:

• Tonio, The Daughter of the Regiment, Opera Orlando • Tybalt, Romeo and Juliet, Houston Grand Opera • Pong, Turandot, Houston Grand Opera UPCOMING:

• Pane, La Calisto, Opera Memphis • Tenor Soloist, Mozart’s Requiem, Princeton Symphony Orchestra

Blake Denson RECENTLY:

• Angelotti, Tosca, Santa Fe Opera • Donner, Das Rheingold, English National Opera • Ford, Falstaff, Houston Grand Opera UPCOMING:

• Pastor/Kaboom, Fire Shut up in My Bones, The Metropolitan Opera • Yamadori, Madama Butterfly, The Metropolitan Opera

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CONDUCTOR Joseph Colaneri The Jerry W. Zachary and Henry Bernstein Maestro Chair

FEATURING Lisette Oropesa, soprano Ashley Dixon, mezzo-soprano Carlos Enrique Santelli, tenor Blake Denson, baritone With The Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra Lisette Oropesa in Concert is generously underwritten by John G. Turner and Jerry G. Fischer.

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.

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Overture from Il gazza ladra by Gioachino Rossini: “O Dieu! que de bijoux!…Ah! je ris de me voir si belle en ce miroir” (Jewel Song) from Faust by Charles Gounod “Caro elisir! sei mio!…Esulti pur la barbara,” from L’elisir d’amore by Gaetano Donizetti “Amour, viens rendre à mon âme,” from Orphée et Eurydice

by Christoph Willibald Gluck “Tutte le feste al tempio…Sì, vendetta,” from Rigoletto

by Giuseppe Verdi “Ah! mes amis, quel jour de fête!…Pour mon âme,” from La fille du régiment by Gaetano Donizetti Prelude to La traviata by Giuseppe Verdi “Èstrano!…Ah fors’è lui…Sempre libera,” from La traviata

by Giuseppe Verdi “Nacqui all’affanno e al pianto…Non più mesta,” from La Cenerentola by Gioachino Rossini “Au fond du temple saint,” from Les pêcheurs de perles

by Georges Bizet “Mira, o Norma,” from Norma by Vincenzo Bellini “Votre toast, je peux vous le rendre” (Toreador Song), from Carmen by Georges Bizet “Un dì, se ben rammentomi…Bella figlia dell’amore,” from Rigoletto by Giuseppe Verdi

THANK YOU!

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 (NOTA)

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 Consul General of France Fidelity Bank Hancock Whitney Bank Josef Sternberg Memorial Fund Louisiana Society of Hearing Aid Specialists BRONZE CIRCLE - $25,000+ New Orleans Jazz and Heritage City of New Orleans/Arts New Orleans Festival and Foundation Freeport-McMoRan Foundation Arts Fund Peoples Health OPERA America/Next Stage Renaissance Publishing National Endowment for the Arts The Ella West Freeman Foundation New Orleans Tourism and Cultural Fund Van der Linden Family Foundation Priddy Family Foundation WWNO The Selley Foundation Fund We gratefully acknowledge matching and in-kind(*) gifts INTERMEZZO CIRCLE $10,000+ from the following institutions: Entergy Charitable Foundation 1000 Figs* V. Price LeBlanc Jr. Fund Acme Oyster House* Lexus of New Orleans Annunciation Restaurant* Louisiana State Arts Council/ Antoine’s* Louisiana Division of the Arts Applied Materials Foundation Atchafalaya Restaurant* McCall Fund Louise H. Moffett Family Foundation Beggar’s Banquet* Booth Bricker Fund Wisdom-Benjamin Foundation Boucherie*

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Brennan’s* Byblos* Capulet* Café Degas* Café Porche* Carmo* City of New Orleans Mayor’s Office of Cultural Economy* Dooky Chase Restaurant* Elizabeth’s Restaurant* ExxonMobil Foundation French Market Coffee* Freeport McMoRan Copper and Gold Foundation Galatoire’s* Garrison Kitchen and Cocktails* 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 Café* Pascal’s Manale Restaurant* Peoples Health Pho Michael Vietnamese Cuisine* Picnic Provisions and Whiskey* Shell Oil Company Foundation Tableau* Thaihey Nola* Tsunami Sushi* Windsor Court Hotel* UBS Financial Services Ye Olde College Inn* Zasu*

LEGACY SOCIETY

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 November 2023 Anonymous (2) Drs. Stephen J. & Miriam R. Bensman Mr. Henry Bernstein 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 2008-2023 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.

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COMMEMORATIVE GIFTS

COMMEMORATIVE GIFTS IN LOVING MEMORY OF John Armbruster Ms. Paula Armbruster Dale C. Biggers Mrs. Virgene Biggers

Kathryn Lear Dorman Cynthia M. Molyneux

Dale C. Biggers Mrs. Dale C. Biggers

Phil Frohnmayer Ellen Frohnmayer

Mercedes Vulliet Bonner Thomas and Judith Bonner Patrick Breeden Margie Breeden Mrs. Betty Brooks Mr. David S. Thomas Jr. Mr. Emmet Geary Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Frederick W. Christian Jeanne Bruno Mr. Edward F. Martin Elaine Calamia Ms. Judith Clay Mr. A.J. Capritto Mr. Emmet Geary Jr. Virginia Chapman Doug and Mary Albert

Dr. Carolyn Ruth Rudnick Ettinger Ms. Sharon Hayes-Roth

Diane Bennett Hammer, M.D. Dr. Robert Hammer Gladys Gay LeBreton Mr. and Mrs. Edward F. LeBreton III Deirdre P. Long Dr. William Long Mark Rausch Carol Rausch Alfonso Sabadie Ms. Francisca Sabadie Annette Scott Ms. Shirley Morrison Dr. Aysen Young Mr. Emmet Geary Jr. Mimi and Claude Schlesinger

IN HONOR OF Deborah Green Ms. Clara Green

Varla Jean Merman Alex Aho

Rachel Looney Ms. Janet Whittington

Stephanie Sheridan Ms. Mary Scully

Maestro Robert Lyall Sarah Jane McMahon Ranney Mize Drs. Nicholas and Haydee Bazan

Sonda Stacey Ms. Elizabeth Liu

Ted Martin Stephanie November and Brenda Stephens

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Joanna Sternberg Ms. Mary Ann Sternberg

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STAFF

NOOA

IATSE STAFF

Staff Clare Burovac, General & Artistic Director Gina Klein, Director of Operations

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

Artistic & Production Stephen Thurber, Technical Director Keith Christopher, Assistant Technical Director Sarah McCall, Director of Production Carol Rausch, Chorus Master / Music Administrator Development Joanna Sternberg, Director of Development 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 Local #840 Theatrical Wardrobe Union President - Shannon Muhleisen Secretary/Treasurer - Nancy Macko Business Agent - Bonnie Haase Wardrobe Lead - Lesly Davi Sewing Lead - Amy Amos

H. LLOYD HAWKINS SCENIC STUDIO Stephen Thurber - Technical Director Keith Christopher - Assistant Technical Director Nathan Arthur - Art Director Shelley Irene Dall - Property Master Alyx Jeffries – Technical Assistant Hair and Makeup Artist – Laurin Hart

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).

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SUPPORT GROUPS

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 Ann Duffy and John Skinner 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

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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 Mr. Jonathan Starch Lisette! | NewOrleansOpera.org

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THANK YOU

OUR WORK IS MADE POSSIBLE WITH YOUR CONTINUED SUPPORT. As we approach the end of 2023, please consider the impact of the arts in our community.

Your tax-deductible donation will enable New Orleans Opera to continue bringing the joy and inspiration of this powerful art form to everyone in “America’s first city of Opera.”

To make a contribution, please visit our website at www.neworleansopera.org/donate, mail a check to P.O. Box 52108; New Orleans, LA 70152, or call our offices at (504) 529-2278.

Every dollar makes a difference and brings us one step closer to realizing our vision for a more connected community.

THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT AND YOUR BELIEF IN THE TRANSFORMATIVE POWER OF OPERA.

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UPCOMING EVENTS

2023-2024 NEW ORLEANS OPERA

Lucia di Lammermoor

At the Mahalia Jackson Theater Featuring the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra

March 22 and 24, 2024

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