Two opera masterpieces are coming from the Met Live in HD to The Ridgefield Playhouse in the next two weeks. On Saturday, April 7, at 12 noon & 6 p.m., Anna Netrebko will perform Massenet’s Manon with her world-class voice and artistry. Verdi’s La Traviata is center stage on Saturday, April 14, at 1 p.m. & 6 p.m. with French diva Natalie Dessay playing her stunning portrayal of Violetta in what critics are calling a magnificent production. To make it a dinner-and-opera night out, Sarah’s Wine Bar (upstairs at Bernard’s at 22 West Lane in Ridgefield) is offering a free glass of wine with dinner, and Bernard’s has created a special prix-fixe menu when tickets to these operas are presented. Reservations are suggested at Bernard’s. This series is underwritten by Barker Welfare Foundation, Lori and John Berisford, Jeanne Cook, Anita and Nick Donofrio, Liz and Steven Goldstone, IBM, Madeline and Fritz Jelinek, Valerie and Greg Jensen, Marilyn and Joe Kreitz, Aline Lawrence, Joanne and John Patrick, Patricia and Stephen Ross, Daniela Sikora and Keitha Kinne, Sabina and Walter Slavin, Mike Taylor and Steve Zemo.
This production of Manon is Anna Netrebko's first time singing the role of the glamorous Manon at the Met. She has been acclaimed for her performance in the role the world over. The new production of Manon by Laurent Pelly travels to the Met from the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden, England and stars Russian super-soprano Anna Netrebko. Known as the ultimate modern incarnation of operatic prima donna, she plays the part of the fantasy-soprano to perfection.
"Netrebko's full-blooded, vocally virtuosic Manon is at first surprising in a role usually sung by lighter, more delicate voices...but the Russian soprano's supercharged voice is a fine fit for a production that paints a picture of ravishing Paris - with a knife in it." (Verena Dobnik, Associated Press). Tony Award-winning Brazilian baritone Paulo Szot (South Pacific) returns to the Met in the role of Lescaut, Manon's cousin and protector.
Direct from the stage of the Met with behind-the-scenes interviews and a tour of the grand opera house, La Traviata features Natalie Dessay who will put on the red dress to portray Violetta. Dessay is one of today’s big operatic stars who thrills audiences with her voice and acting. Matthew Polenzani sings Alfredo, Dmitri Hvorostovsky is Germont, and Fabio Luisi is on the podium.
For tickets ($25 for adults and $20 for members, seniors and students only available by calling the box office), call (203) 438-5795 or order online at ridgefieldplayhouse.org. The Ridgefield Playhouse is a not-for-profit performing arts center located at 80 East Ridge, parallel to Main St., Ridgefield, CT
