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Professional performing arts group Livermore Valley Opera has announced the lineup for its 33rd season, promising to deliver shows with comedy, drama and passion for audiences to enjoy.
The upcoming season will feature two classic productions, Gaetano Donizetti’s “The Daughter of the Regiment” and Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s “Don Giovanni” — with tickets set to go on sale next Wednesday (May 1).
All shows will be taking place at the Bankhead Theater in downtown Livermore.
Kicking off the season, “The Daughter of the Regiment” is scheduled to run between Sept. 28 and Oct. 6.
LVO artistic director Erie Mills expressed her excitement for the upcoming production.
“The opera has some of the most wonderful music by Donizetti, it’s charming and funny, and it has a very happy ending,” Mills said. “The audience will smile through the entire opera. It’s fun for all ages.”
The two-act opera tells the tale of Marie, a baby found on a French battlefield and is raised as the “daughter” of the 21st regiment. Marie’s foster-father and aunt have plans in mind for her to marry a prestigious soldier; however, she is drawn to follow her heart and be with the Tyrolean peasant Tonio.
“I am thrilled to bring ‘The Daughter of the Regiment’ to the Bankhead stage this season. Donizetti’s masterpiece is overflowing with charm and humor,” Mills said.
The production will star Véronique Filloux as Marie and Christopher Bozeka as Tonio.
With over 70 operas to his name, “The Daughter of the Regiment” stands as one of Donizetti’s most beloved works, offering an engaging mix of romance and comedy for all ages.
“(This production) holds a special place in the hearts of opera lovers worldwide. Its endearing story of love and loyalty, coupled with Donizetti’s enchanting score, promises an evening of pure delight,” Mills added. “It is a masterpiece that transcends time.”
And then in the new year, audiences can expect performances of “Don Giovanni” between March 1-9, 2025. To be sung in Italian with English supertitles at the Bankhead, the Mozart piece delves into themes of love, mortality and the consequences of one’s actions.
“Many consider this Mozart’s greatest opera,” Mills said of the story. “The drama is compelling and the music sublime. This cast will make it all look easy — and it is not.”
Titus Muzi takes on the role of Don Giovanni, with Murrella Parton starring as Donna Ana.
“As we unveil our 33rd season lineup, I couldn’t be more excited for what’s in store,” Mills said of the upcoming productions. “I have the utmost confidence in our talented cast and crew to bring these productions to life in ways that will exceed expectations. Their dedication, passion and artistry will shine brightly on stage, creating magical moments for our audiences.”
In addition to the main stage productions, LVO is gearing up for its Opera in the Vineyard event at Garré Vineyard & Winery in Livermore. The fundraiser, with two installments this summer, will allow guests the chance to “escape to a world of music and merriment.”
“There’s a unique energy that comes from experiencing opera live,” Mills explained. “It’s a visceral, transformative experience that transports you to another world and stirs the deepest emotions within. I invite everyone to join us for an unforgettable journey through music and storytelling.”
Set against the picturesque backdrop of the vineyard, attendees can bask in the ambiance of live music, wine and camaraderie.
Scheduled for June 23 and Aug. 18, LVO said the events promise an unforgettable experience for opera enthusiasts and wine connoisseurs alike.
Tickets for the Opera in the Vineyard fundraisers are available for purchase at livermorevalleyopera.com.