Released: February 25, 2010
Giuseppe Verdi wrote Rigoletto in the 1850s, and now his music is spread into our Midwestern community. Thirty-two singers and a full orchestra of 32 members are bringing the masterpiece to the stage. Rigoletto will be performed at the Kimball Recital Hall on February 25 at 12:00 pm, February 26 at 7:30 pm, and February 28 at 3:00 pm.
Dr. William Shomos, School of Music Professor of Voice and Director of UNL Opera, said that he wanted to bring some tradition to the stage.“I wanted a balanced season. In the fall, we did a new opera, Our Town, just composed by Ned Rorem in 2006. To contrast that, I have chosen Rigoletto, one of the all-time standard masterpieces, for the spring,” Dr. Shomos said.
To put on a masterpiece, you need the best talent on the stage. The upcoming performance will feature Todd Thomas in the title role of Rigoletto. Thomas is a recognized New York City visiting artist acclaimed for his true “Verdi” sound.
“It is one that audiences love to return to over and over again,” said Dr. Shomos.
Giuseppe Verdi, the famous Italian composer, was in high demand when he wrote this piece. It took him 40 days to create this mix of love, politics, and conflict. Now for over a month, UNL students have been preparing to share it with you.
“Great talent, great music, for a great price,” said Dr. Shomos.
Tickets are $20 for adults, $10 for students and seniors and are available through the Lied Center box office at 402/472-4747 or 800-432-3231. For more information about the opera, visit:
http://www.unl.edu/music/events/opera_rigoletto.shtml.