Opera in the Heights Presents a New Production of Verdi’s Un Ballo In Maschera starting Feb. 16

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Opera in the Heights (Oh!) presents a new look at Verdi’s tale of regicide, Un Ballo in Maschera (A Masked Ball), from February 16 – 24 at Lambert Hall.

Based on a true story of the assassination of King Gustav III of Sweden at a masked ball during the 18th century, Verdi’s Un Ballo in Maschera is a tale of forbidden love, a dark prophecy, and ultimate betrayal.

Adapted by Verdi to be set in the United States, the opera tells the story of Riccardo, a compassionate and beloved senator, who has two problems: conspirators plotting his assassination, and he is in love with his best friend’s wife.

In a new production envisioned by stage director John De Los Santos with scenic designer Jonathan Dahm Robertson, Opera in the Heights’ production will explore male and female relationships – their bonds by love, wealth and stature, and the eternal back-and-forth in a confused and decadent world – delivered in a sensual style. The disparity between the elite groups who rule and the plight of the lower classes will also be up for analysis on the stage.

“Ballo represents Verdi, the quintessential master of Italian opera, at the peak of his compositional powers,” says Eiki Isomura, Artistic Director. “Every moment is charged with visceral emotion and psychological depth. It’s a substantial piece that demands an exceptional cast, and I am quite in awe of the powerful, old-school vocalism these artists are bringing to their performances.”

“Un Ballo in Maschera is one of Verdi’s most acclaimed masterpieces. However, rarely performed in this country,” says Paige Myrick, Executive Director. “Once by Houston Grand Opera in 2007 and Opera in the Heights in 2010 over the past decade. We’re excited to bring a new sleek, severe, and edgy version to Houston audiences.”

Performance Dates and Times

There will be four performances of Un Ballo in Maschera presented at Lambert Hall (1703 Heights Boulevard, Houston, 77008):

  • Friday, February 16, at 7:30 p.m.
  • Sunday, February 18, at 2:00 p.m.
  • Thursday, February 22, at 7:30 p.m.
  • Saturday, February 24, at 7:30 p.m.

Performed in Italian with English surtitles, the runtime is approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, including two 15-minute intermissions.

Ticket holders are invited to a post-performance “Talk-Back” with the cast following the matinee on Sunday, February 18.

YOLO post-performance cocktail mixer with the cast will follow the performance on Thursday, February 22.

Purchase tickets online at www.operaintheheights.org or by phone at 713-861-5303. Prices begin at $40 with discounts for children, students, and seniors.  Group Sales: for 10 or more tickets, email daniel@operaintheheights.org or call 713-861-5303.

Fine Arts