What You're Missing This Week That You Didn't Know You Were Missing

State Library of New South
Wales Collection via Flickr

Regulars of this blog & friends of mine already know how much I adore Austin Lyric Opera. They did a magnificent job with Pagliacci and Marriage of Figaro. The production of Marriage of Figaro in particular stole my heart for weeks with joyous remembrances. As such I am incredibly excited for the performance of Faust this week.

Gounod's Faust tells the tale of an elderly scholar, a young woman, and the Devil in the midst of a struggle of good versus evil.

The folks at Austin Lyric Opera have yet to disappoint and I cannot endorse this performance enough. Have I seen it? No. But I have seen what these folks are capable of and they can send shivers down your spine with heart wrenching arias and bring you to tears through laughter with witty word play and situational sung humor.

Trust me. You don't want to miss seeing Mephistopheles strut his bass-baritone-wielding self across the stage.



Tickets are still on sale & this close to the opening night they have some fantastic deals. Go here now to reserve your spot in the Devil's audience.

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What You Don't Want to Miss: Austin Lyric Opera's Marriage of Figaro

I admit that I'm new to the opera scene in Austin. I've only experienced two other productions by Austin Lyric Opera, but I can merrily admit that I'm in. Hook, line, & sinker. I also freely admit that I listen to opera music, but never as a complete opera. I have those "best of" opera albums that highlight the best arias. So, basically what I'm saying here is that I go into these operas blind. I know the basic story, but the music hits me with the full force of newness.

Marriage of Figaro opened last night, Thursday January 31st at the Long Center. Go. Just drop your previous plans for this weekend, pick a day, and go. Go. Go. Go!

I walked to the Long Center from slightly north on a beautiful Austin night. Opera semi-veteran tip: walk. The parking garage is always packed & it's difficult to leave. Eat dinner downtown and wander the streets to the Long Center. You won't be disappointed when you get to experience a beautiful sunset and scenery.

Those who are familiar with the opera will know Marriage of Figaro is a comedy. I knew this. I didn't know that the humor was mainly situational and witty. The facial expressions and body language are key elements of the opera and the cast did an excellent job delivering. The music is from Mozart, the lyrics are well sung, the dramatic flair on stage is apropos, the set is crafted beautifully, and it's highly entertaining. I cannot recommend it enough & tickets are still available!

Get thee to the opera!

View from the Long Center, Austin, TX

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