by Guisela Chiarella
As the curtains rise this fall, the historic Teatro Verdi of Trieste will unveil a meticulously curated lineup for its 2024-2025 season, featuring an array of operatic and ballet masterpieces that promise to enchant audiences. This year’s program is characterized by a rich blend of tradition and innovation, ensuring a season that resonates with both connoisseurs and new enthusiasts alike.
The season commences on November 8th with Verdi’s beloved “La Traviata.” This new production by the French director Arnaud Bernard, celebrated for his innovative yet classical interpretations, will be conducted by the esteemed Enrico Calesso. Maria Grazia Schiavo and Antonio Poli will lead a stellar cast, bringing their acclaimed vocal prowess to the roles of Violetta and Alfredo.
Following swiftly in December, the stage will come alive with the ballet “Don Quixote” by Aloisius Ludwig Minkus. This production will highlight the creative synergy between Trieste and the neighboring Ljubljana, under the choreography of Denis Matvienko. Ayrton Desimpelaere will direct, with costumes and set designs by Neven Mihić, showcasing the virtuosity of the SNG Opera and Ballet Ljubljana alongside Trieste’s own orchestra and technical crew.
In January, Mozart’s “Die Entführung aus dem Serail” will be presented in a new staging by Ivan Stefanutti, who will also design the sets and costumes. Maestro Beatrice Venezi returns to the podium, guiding a cast featuring Anna Aglatova as Konstanze and Ruzil Gatin as Belmonte.
February will bring a unique treat with Puccini’s triple bill: “Il Tabarro,” “Suor Angelica,” and “Gianni Schicchi.” This co-production with the Teatro Comunale di Bologna marks the beginning of a fruitful collaboration. Directed by Pier Francesco Maestrini and conducted by Francesco Ivan Ciampa, the performances will feature notable talents such as Roman Burdenko and Anastasia Bartoli.
March heralds the return of Wagner to Trieste with “Der Fliegende Holländer.” Directed by Henning Brockhaus and conducted by Enrico Calesso, this production reunites acclaimed Wagnerian artists, including James Rutherford as the titular Dutchman and Elena Batoukova-Kerl as Senta, reaffirming Trieste’s historical connection to the German repertoire.
In April, Donizetti’s “Lucia di Lammermoor” will grace the stage, continuing the theatre’s homage to the illustrious composer. Directed by Bruno Berger-Gorski with set designs by Carmen Castañón, the production will be conducted by Daniel Oren and feature the celebrated soprano Jessica Pratt in the title role.
May will see another Verdi classic, “Rigoletto,” directed by Vivien Hewitt and conducted once again by Daniel Oren. Amartuvshin Enkhbat, fresh from his lauded debut at La Scala, will take on the role of Rigoletto, supported by an international cast.
The season concludes in June with Leonard Bernstein’s “Candide,” in a co-production with the Teatro Comunale di Bologna. This production will mark the operatic directorial debut of renowned choreographer Renato Zanella, with Kevin Rhodes conducting.
Artistic Director Paolo Rodda and General Manager Giuliano Polo expressed their enthusiasm for this season’s diverse offerings. “Our aim is to engage the various facets of our audience—from the traditionalists to the younger generations seeking fresh experiences,” Rodda stated. “This season not only highlights the excellence of our own workshops but also strengthens our collaborations, both locally and internationally.”
The subscription campaign begins on June 25, 2024, with ticket sales for individual performances starting on October 15, 2024. Prices remain unchanged from last season, with special promotions available for young audiences under 34.
For further details, visit www.teatroverdi-trieste.com or contact the Teatro Verdi Trieste box office.
Contact Information:
- Website: www.teatroverdi-trieste.com
- Email: info@teatroverdi-trieste.com, ufficiostampa@teatroverdi-trieste.com, boxoffice@teatroverdi-trieste.com
Season Highlights:
La Traviata
- Dates: November 8, 9, 10, 15, 16, 17
- Conductor: Enrico Calesso
- Director: Arnaud Bernard
- Main Cast: Maria Grazia Schiavo, Antonio Poli
Don Quixote
- Dates: November 30, December 1, 3, 4, 5, 6
- Choreographer: Denis Matvienko
- Conductor: Ayrton Desimpelaere
Die Entführung aus dem Serail
- Dates: January 17, 18, 19, 24, 25, 26, 2025
- Conductor: Beatrice Venezi
- Director: Ivan Stefanutti
Puccini’s Triple Bill
- Dates: February 21, 22, 23, 28, March 1, 2, 2025
- Conductor: Francesco Ivan Ciampa
- Director: Pier Francesco Maestrini
Der Fliegende Holländer
- Dates: March 21, 22, 23, 28, 29, 30, 2025
- Conductor: Enrico Calesso
- Director: Henning Brockhaus
Lucia di Lammermoor
- Dates: April 17, 18, 22, 24, 26, 27, 2025
- Conductor: Daniel Oren
- Director: Bruno Berger-Gorski
Rigoletto
- Dates: May 16, 17, 18, 23, 24, 25, 31, 2025
- Conductor: Daniel Oren
- Director: Vivien Hewitt
Candide
- Dates: June 13, 14, 15, 19, 21, 22, 2025
- Conductor: Kevin Rhodes
- Director: Renato Zanella
Experience a season of musical splendor at the Teatro Verdi Trieste, where timeless classics and contemporary masterpieces converge in a celebration of art and culture.