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Lovers of opera rarely get to see "La Gioconda" produced. The production is full of grand costumes are grand and elaborate sets created by stage designer, Sormani, whose work graces opera houses around the world.
"Ponchielli’s music was way ahead of his time. This is pure verismo," says Artistic Director Lucine Amara.
Based on Angelo, Tyrant of Padua by Victor Hugo, the story takes places in Venice, during the seventeenth rule of the doges. Under the direction of Stage Director and Canadian soprano Evelyn La Quaif, the fully staged production in four acts is set to Arrigo Boito's Italian libretto.
The cast sings in Italian and English supertitles are provided for the audience.
Led by Chorus Director Mara Waldman, the cast performs under the direction of the company's new principal conductor, Cuban-born Lucy Arner.
"I am very excited to begin my relationship with the New Jersey Association of Verismo Opera, a company that specializes in presenting the verismo and bel canto operas that are so close to my heart. To make my debut with La Gioconda, an opera that is on every opera conductor’s 'bucket list', is an added bonus," Arner said.
The cast features several vocalists who have performed before with Verismo Opera. Canadian soprano Sharon Azrieli Perez will assume the role of Gioconda. Lyric mezzo-soprano Anna Tonna joins the company as Laura Adorno.
Artistic director and choreographer Cherylyn Lavagnino and the Cherylyn Lavagnino Dance Company debut with Verismo Opera to perform the ballet scene.
Click here to purchase tickets online, call (201) 227-1030 or 1-888-PACSHOW.
BergenPAC is located at 30 North Van Brunt St.
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