From Chicago Sun-Times · · 1m 50s
Lyric Opera’s 'Don Giovanni' Revival Highlights Contradictions
Lyric Opera’s revival of Mozart’s 'Don Giovanni' reveals uncomfortable contradictions through sharp performances and symbolic staging.
In brief
Lyric Opera’s revival of Mozart’s 'Don Giovanni' reveals uncomfortable contradictions through sharp performances and symbolic staging. Lyric Opera’s 'Don Giovanni' revival showcases Christian Van Horn’s compelling portrayal of the title character amid the opera’s complex themes and historical context. Originally…
Lyric Opera’s 'Don Giovanni' Revival
Lyric Opera of Chicago presents Mozart’s 'Don Giovanni' with a 3½-hour revival running through Nov. 1.
“Christian Van Horn, Nina Solodovnikova and Anna El-Khashem star in 'Don Giovanni,' running through Nov. 1 at Lyric Opera of Chicago.”
Director Robert Falls’ Approach
Stage director Robert Falls shifts the setting to the 1920s for visual effect without imposing sociopolitical themes.
“And, indeed, in this 3½-hour take, which Lyric first presented in 2014-15 and reprised in 2:019-20, stage director Robert Falls doesn’t try to impose some sociopolitical overlay onto this opera.”
Christian Van Horn’s Performance
Christian Van Horn delivers a self-assured portrayal of Don Giovanni, balancing suave charm and thuggish predatory behavior.
“The veteran bass-baritone delivered a self-assured, utterly convincing portrayal of the complicated title character, who is at once a suave charmer and a thuggish sexual predator.”
Costumes and Sets
Ana Kuzmanic’s costumes and Walt Spangler’s sets, enhanced by lighting, create a visually striking production.
“The stunning costumes by Ana Kuzmanic and sets by Walt Spangler (ably enhanced by lighting designer Duane Schuler) are a big part of the show’s appeal.”
Key Cast Members
Anna El-Khashem, Nina Solodovnikova, and Mané Galoyan deliver standout performances as Zerlina, Donna Elvira, and Donna Anna.
“Soprano Nina Solodovnikova, also making a standout Lyric debut, handles Donna Elvira’s high-flying coloratura passagework with striking aplomb.”
Final Scene Impact
The final scene features a dramatic table flip that sends Don Giovanni into hell, symbolizing his downfall.
“But nothing tops the spectacular coup de théâtre in the final scene, when the banquet table on which Giovanni is sprawled flips upward and he is sucked downward into hell as white smoke rises from the fiery depths.”
Operatic Significance
Lyric Opera has performed 'Don Giovanni' 11 times since its 1954 debut, cementing its status as a masterwork.
“'Don Giovanni' was the first opera that Lyric Opera ever presented in February 1954, and the company has reprised it 10 more times before this latest outing.”
Critical Reception
The production highlights the opera’s humor and contradictions, with strong vocal performances from all cast members.
“The composer saved the best vocal writing for the opera’s three central women, who were all victims of Giovanni yet go on to show their unbowed strengths.”
Cast Highlights
Tommaso Barea excels as Leporello, while Lawrence Brownlee’s portrayal of Don Ottavio shows some disconnect.
“Bass-baritone Christopher Humbert Jr. nicely conveys the confusion and hurt of Masetto and bass David Leigh is suitably stentorian as the Commendatore.”
Musical Direction
Music director Enrique Mazzola leads the orchestra with vibrant interpretations of Mozart’s score.
“Under the impassioned leadership of music director Enrique Mazzola, the ever-reliable Lyric Opera Orchestra infuses vivacity and color into Mozart’s timeless score.”
Historical Context
The revival enhances the opera’s drama by addressing contemporary themes without direct political commentary.
“It is impossible not to perceive 1787 opera 'Don Giovanni' in a more fraught way in the aftermath of the #MeToo movement and such contemporary real-life Hollywood sexual villains like comedian Bill Cosby and producer Harvey Weinstein.”
Why This Matters
The production reaffirms 'Don Giovanni' as a timeless masterwork that resonates with modern audiences.
“As this latest presentation reconfirms, it is one of opera’s ever-compelling masterworks.”
At a glance
Lyric Opera’s 'Don Giovanni' revival showcases Christian Van Horn’s compelling portrayal of the title character amid the opera’s complex themes and historical context.
