Minnesota Opera's The Anonymous Lover by Minnesota Opera

2021– 2022 SEASON February 5-13, 2022

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RYAN TAYLOR PRESIDENT AND GENERAL DIRECTOR

F E A T U R E S

elcome back to the Ordway for the Minnesota Opera premiere of The Anonymous Lover by groundbreaking Black composer Joseph Bologne, Chevalier de Saint-Georges. We’re delighted to have artists and audiences together again at the Ordway for this heartwarming comic romance about love prevailing. Looking ahead, we’re already hard at work on our chorus concert, Voices United, and our spring blockbuster, Carmen, directed by mezzo-soprano superstar Denyce Graves. In just a few weeks, we will be announcing our 60th Season, filled with new classics, old favorites, and a few fun surprises. Now more than ever, we here at Minnesota Opera thank you for your patronage and we can’t wait to share another season of opera with you!

CO N T E N TS 6

The Anonymous Lover

Synopsis

Composer

Director’s Notes • 10 The Anonymous Lover’s Stage Director Maria Todaro gives her insight into this heartfelt comic romance

Director’s Notes

Health and Safety Information

Cast and Creative Team

Orchestra and Chorus

Judy Dayton Memoriam

Meet the Artist

Beyond the Gala

Carmen Preview

MN Opera Board of Directors and Staff

Meet the Artist • 16

Upcoming Events and MN Opera Information

Resident Artist Symone Harcum makes her Ordway stage debut as Léontine

MN Opera Donor Appreciation

Special Giving

Institutional Giving

LARGE-PRINT AND BRAILLE PROGRAMS ARE AVAILABLE AT THE PATRON SERVICES OFFICE.

Carmen Preview • 18 Carmen opens May 7

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FLX:II

MUSIC BY

Joseph Bologne, Chevalier de Saint-Georges

LIBRETTO BY

François-Georges Fouques Deshayes, Desfontaines

BASED ON THE PLAY L’AMANT ANONYME BY

Stéphanie Félicité de Genlis, Madame de Genlis

NEW SCRIPT AND TRANSLATIONS

Harrison David Rivers with Maria Todaro

WORLD PREMIERE IN THE PRIVATE THEATER OF THE MARQUISE DE MONTESSON ON MARCH 8, 1780 SUNG IN FRENCH WITH ENGLISH DIALOGUE. ENGLISH CAPTIONS PROJECTED ABOVE THE STAGE. TRANSLATIONS AND PROJECTED TITLES BY HARRISON DAVID RIVERS AND MARIA TODARO

CAST

in order of vocal appearance

VALCOUR

C A RLOS EN RIQ UE SA N T ELLI

C HR I STOP HE R FR A N K L I N

STAGE DIRECTOR

LÉONTINE

SCENIC DESIGN

SY MO N E H ARCUM +

M A R I A TODA R O

STE P HA N M OR AVSK I

INTIMACY AND FIGHT DIRECTOR

D OU G SC HOL Z- C A R L SON

ASSOCIATE CONDUCTOR AND CHORUS DIRECTOR A N D R E W W HI TFI E L D

ASSISTANT DIRECTOR

DOROTHÉE

COSTUME DESIGN

JEANNETTE

LIGHTING DESIGN M A RY SHA BATU R A

C E L E STE M A R I E J OHN SON + , A L L E N P E R R I E L LO

COLIN

HAIR AND MAKE-UP DESIGN

PRODUCTION STAGE MANAGER

ZO IE REA MS * †

L EA H B RZYS KI +

MINNESOTA OPERA MNOPERA.ORG

CONDUCTOR

OPHÉMON

AARO N KEEN EY +

CREATIVE TEAM

JOS EPH LEPPEK +

JOSEPH BOLOGNE, CHEVALIER DE SAINT-GEORGES BRIAN B OS E

A R I F U LTON

E M M A GU STA FSON

E M I LY BI SHA I +

RÉPÉTITEURS

E M I LY BU TZ I

CO-CHOREOGRAPHERS J E N N I F E R M AC K , DJ E N A N E SA I N T J U STE

STÉPHANIE FÉLICITÉ DE GENLIS, MADAME DE GENLIS JEN N IFER MACK

+ MN OPERA RESIDENT ARTIST

* PROJECT OPERA ALUM † COMPANY ARTIST

PRODUCTION SUPPORT

ESTIMATED RUNNING TIME

is 90 minutes with no intermission.

Opera Ritrovata’s Critical Edition of L’Amant Anonyme (1780). Music by Joseph Bologne, Chevalier de Saint-Georges (1745–1799) and libretto by François-Georges Fouques Deshayes, Desfontaines, based on the play L’Amant Anonyme by Stéphanie Félicité, Madame de Genlis. By arrangement with Opera Ritrovata in conjunction with the publishers and copyright owners, engravers, and editors: George N. Gianopoulos, Stephen Karr, Leila Núñez-Fredell, and Mishkar Núñez-Fredell. Orchestration for “Air des amours d’Eté” by David Hanlon

THE ANONYMOUS LOVER 2021–22

YOURS TRULY

SEASON SPONSOR

SYNOPSIS

Y O U R S T R U LY ACT ONE Léontine’s Villa: Outdoor terrasse at sunrise.

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Valcour has been hopelessly in love with Léontine, a beautiful young widow, for years (aria: “Depuis longtemps” — “For a long time”). With the help of his trusted accomplice Ophémon (who himself has secretly enrolled the help of his dear friend Dorothée), Valcour has been showering Léontine with a stream of gifts, flowers and love letters. He has done so anonymously; Léontine was left feeling betrayed after her late husband’s death and Valcour is certain that she has no interest now in pursuing romance with anyone. He tells Ophémon that he has lost all hope of winning her affections, while Ophémon responds that it is time for Valcour to reveal his secret (duet: “Tant de constance, tant d’amour” — “Such constancy, such love”). Léontine accidentally overhears this conversation and learns that she is madly loved by Valcour.

Léontine, trying to conceal her new knowledge that Valcour loves her, asks him to settle a dispute she is having with her friend Dorothée. The Anonymous Lover has sent Léontine a bouquet of flowers along with a letter asking her to carry it at a wedding later that day; if she doesn’t, he will take it as a sign that he should stop sending gifts and leave her alone. Dorothée thinks that it would do no harm for Léontine to accept the flowers. Wanting to see Valcour’s reaction, Léontine claims she does not want to hurt her secret admirer’s feelings (aria: “Son amour, sa constance extreme” — “His love, his extreme constancy”), and that she doesn’t want to lead him on either. Meanwhile, her dear friend Dorothée is slightly surprised by Léontine’s strange behavior. Valcour convinces Léontine to carry the bouquet. Jeannette and Colin, a young couple about to be married, arrive and express their thanks to Léontine (chorus: SYNOPSIS BY MARK LYONS, COURTESY OF LOS ANGELES OPERA.

“Cantons, célébrons notre dame” — “Let us sing, let us celebrate our lady”) for making their wedding possible. They hope that everyone might be as filled with love and joy (chanson: “Jouissez de l’allégresse” — “Enjoy the happiness”) as they are. Léontine is surprised, but this wedding seems to be one of the festivities the Anonymous Lover regularly organizes for her. The guests are enthusiastic to prepare the wedding and the joy is contagious. Dorothée even improvises a special gift for the happy couple. Dorothée, Léontine, and Valcour find themselves alone for a brief moment as all guests start the festivities inside Léontine’s Villa. Valcour tells Léontine that the Anonymous Lover might very well be watching them nearby. He convinces her to call out to her mysterious suitor and ask him to reveal himself. When she does so, Valcour overdramatically — and clumsily — answers that he himself is the tormented Anonymous Lover…a declaration that makes Dorothée laugh at Valcour’s “joke.” But a moment of genuine transparency occurs between Valcour and Léontine and both are shaken, feeling “ seen” by the other. Léontine feels overwhelmed, even dizzy, and everyone’s efforts to help only make it worse. Valcour and Ophémon quickly try to convince Léontine that it was all in jest, while Jeannette and Colin are sympathetic to Léontine’s obvious emotional distress (quintet: “Que de maux mon coeur ressnet” — “My heart feels such pain”).

ACT TWO Léontine’s bedroom, the same evening.

Alone, Léontine feels embarrassed and laments that Valcour is unlikely to understand her feelings (recitative: “Enfin une foule importune” — “At last this unwelcome crowd”) but she wishes

that she could unburden her heart to him. Ophémon, pushed by Valcour, arrives and is forced to improvise news that he has spoken to the Anonymous Lover. Léontine presses him for details (duet: “Ah, finissez de grâce” — “Ah, go on please”) while Ophémon resists. Finally, Ophémon describes how the Anonymous Lover worries that it would be impossible for Léontine to love him (aria: “Aimer sans pouvoir le dire” — “To love without being able to admit it”), but that he wishes to reveal his identity anyway. Léontine agrees to the meeting. As she awaits the arrival of her “not so secret” admirer, Léontine reflects that her heart is now full of passion (ariette: “Du tendre amour” — “Such is the power of tender love”), something she never expected. When Valcour shows up, explaining that he’s just there to be her supportive friend, Léontine desperately tries to get him to confess his love for her (duet: “Non, je ne puis rien entendre” — “No, I can’t listen anymore”). As Ophémon, Dorothée, and eventually the whole village listen outside the door, Léontine and Valcour finally confess their love for each other. Valcour is about to reveal that he himself is the Anonymous Lover (trio: “Ah, quel trouble” — “Ah, such confusion”) when Léontine kisses him, putting an end to the conversation. Léontine tells Dorothée, who already knew everything as she and Ophémon were hoping for this happy denouement, and all join Jeannette and Colin for what is now a double wedding (chorus: “Deux noces à la fois” — “Two weddings at once”). The two couples celebrate their happiness with songs and dances (quartet: “Aimons-nous sans cesse” — “Let us love one another”). Synopsis by Mark Lyons, courtesy of Los Angeles Opera with edits by stage director, Maria Todaro to fit Minnesota Opera’s new production.

COMPOSER

D. PARIS, FRANCE, JUNE 10, 1799

orn on Christmas Day, 1745 in the French colony of Guadeloupe, Joseph Bologne, Chevalier de Saint-Georges, was the son of Georges de Bologne de SaintGeorges, a nobleman and politician, and Anne Nanon, a sixteen-year-old Senegalese person enslaved to him. Little is known of Bologne’s earliest years, but the Code noir, a 1685 decree that outlined racial relations throughout the French empire, defined him a slave under the law and sharply limited his participation in society. Though he spent the first seven years of his life on one of his father’s plantations in the Caribbean, Joseph and Anne were relocated to France by Georges; there he matriculated into the Académie royale polytechnique des armes et de l’équitation, where he excelled at fencing and horseback riding. Among experts, he was considered to be among the finest swordsmen in all of Europe, only suffering one defeat in a serious fencing match throughout his career. Though French law did not permit him to inherit his father’s social status, he was accorded the formal title of Le Chevalier de Saint-Georges — as well as his membership in the Gendarmes de la Garde du Roi, France’s Royal Guard — as a result of his equestrian success. Joseph received a courtly music education while in France, though its specific details have been lost to the historical record. An exceptional student, his talent and skill on the harpsichord and violin earned him dedications from influential composers like Antonio Lolli, who composed two concerti for him. A virtuoso on the violin, Bologne was regarded as one of the most sought-after musicians in prerevolutionary Paris, and subsequently became concertmaster and conductor of Le Concert des Amateurs, a company known for organizing popular concert series around France.

His compositions were well known during his lifetime. His string quartets were among the first performed and published in France. When an opportunity to manage the Royal Academy of Music at Paris Opera arose, Bologne put his name forth for consideration. This bid failed when two company sopranos, along with other artists, objected to working for a Black man. Instead, he went on to direct the prestigious musical theater of the Marquise de Montesson. During this time, he became a prolific composer, publishing two symphony concertantes in 1776 and two more in 1778, as well as three violin concerti and six string quartets in 1777. He also wrote three operas between 1777 and 1780, including The Anonymous Lover. Many of his other compositions, including at least three more operas, have been lost throughout the years.

❝

Bologne’s life was exceptional. He was a leader, a war hero, a “god of arms,” a virtuosic instrumentalist, and a prolific composer whose work was popular during his time.” Bologne’s life was exceptional. He was a leader, a war hero, a “god of arms,” a virtuosic instrumentalist, and a prolific composer whose work was popular during his time. He dueled the best in Europe and won, influenced the work of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, and even played for, performed with, and taught Marie Antoinette. Despite his prodigious talents and extraordinary accomplishments, racism limited the opportunities available to him in his time and blunted the impact of his legacy in ours. Accordingly, we cherish this opportunity to share his work and life with you.

Minnesota Opera is a nonprofit charitable organization that relies on your support. • mnopera.org/donate

B. BAILLIF, BASSE-TERRE, GUADELOUPE, DECEMBER 25, 1745

THE ANONYMOUS LOVER 2021–22

JOSEPH BOLOGNE

DIRECTOR'S NOTES

oseph Bologne, Chevalier de Saint-Georges, his extraordinary life, impact, and art, his influence on many incredible historical figures, and his incredible success despite the prejudice he faced throughout his life has been the core inspiration for this concept. Bologne’s life was simply remarkable. While The Anonymous Lover has gallant charm, romance, and lighthearted themes of love typical of French culture, I cannot help but see him through each note and I wonder how much of himself is present through the opera (he himself was forbidden to marry, etc.). This fascination for the composer is highly influential in this presentation.

MINNESOTA OPERA MNOPERA.ORG

Another intriguing character is the playwright herself, Stéphanie Félicité de Genlis. Of course, she exquisitely portrays “la danse amoureuse,” the chase and the “waiting to be chased” of the amorous game we can all relate to. Still, it is not the beauty of the music nor the joyful and witty story that intrigues me most, but the source of their creation — these two fascinating historical characters.

Our enthusiastic team, Costume Designer Ari Fulton, Set Designer Stephan Moravski, Lighting Designer Mary Shabatura, and I hope to offer an opportunity to celebrate Joseph Bologne’s life and origins by presenting an island very much inspired by 18th-century paintings of Guadalupe, the composer’s birthplace. We invite the audience to travel not only to the composer’s time, but beyond his life as a Frenchman and to the land of his origins. Dramaturg Harrison Rivers joined our team to provide modern relevance to the text while respecting the original libretto. This concept offers an opportunity for bright colors and Caribbean-inspired choreography alongside influence and accents of 18th-century France. We believe that abundance, joy, colors, love, and escape to other times and lands will be healing and important, especially in the times we are all living.

Most importantly, we realized this work offers us an opportunity to invite a diverse cast. Like with the musical Hamilton, we believe that the question of diversity is enhanced when in period costumes. In this 18th-century island setting, diversity on stage would not be anachronistic, as people from all ethnic backgrounds were present and it is reported that many had successful businesses as well. We want to show that despite the prejudice that existed, people from diverse origins were thriving. As another homage to Joseph Bologne’s fame and acclaim: we hope audiences smile at the short fencing sequence in the first duet of the opera and added violin cadenza in the overture. Bologne was known as a remarkable technical fencer and virtuoso violinist, among other talents. We are also starting the opera with the traditional French trois coups. In theatre, les trois coups (the three blows) are hit on the floor of the stage with a rod called brigadier, at the start of a performance in order to get the attention of the public and crew. There are, in total, 12 blows representing the 12 apostles, 9 rapid blows, and 3 final, slower blows representing the queen, the king, and the audience. Our vision for the sets and costumes borrows the silhouettes of the fashion seen in Guadeloupe at that time, with bits of anachronism and modernity, aiding in the relatability of the work. The opera and its timeless love story could be set in any time period, but because we are so highly inspired by Joseph Bologne Chevalier de SaintGeorges, we opted for 18th-century flair. We convey through the black details on Léontine’s costume that she is exiting a period of mourning and give Léontine awareness of Valcour’s “secret” from the start of the opera, where she witnesses the first duet between Valcour and Ophémon (who we dressed with fabrics from diverse part of the world… a little wink to the fascination this time period had for esoterism, new sciences and travels). This tweak is a step away from the original French text. Allowing her to know his efforts changes the playfulness between the characters,

offers equality (she is not manipulated by a man, he is equally manipulated), and offers another stake for humor and humanity. It also offers the possibility for another level of sarcasm, intrigue, and “Frenchness,” while allowing the characters to be very sincere at moments and vulnerable at others. We also tweak the importance of the character of Dorothée and Ophémon who now are also “maitres d’oeuvres” a bit like the Despina/Alfonso duo in Così fan tutte by Mozart.

❝

Despite pervasive limitations we can see through works such as The Anonymous Lover an example of great resilience and true excellence. Joseph Bologne Chevalier de Saint-Georges is one of these examples.” Another unique decision made for this production was to add two songs and an additional line in a trio in the second act for the character of Dorothée. Bologne originally wrote this character as a spoken one for his patron, Madame de Montesson, who welcomed the creation of the opera at her “hotel particulier.” Stéphanie Félicitée de Genlis, the author of the play, was the niece of Madame de Montesson and a dear friend of Bologne, but not the librettist as François-Georges Fouques Deshayes, Desfontaines was. These three creatives involved in l’Amant Anonyme are on stage. We are rectifying finally what should have been rectified a long time ago by creating equal opportunities for all. In our quest for justice, we are also reminded that in some times and places, those from diverse backgrounds did enjoy some measure of success. Despite pervasive limitations we can see through works such as The Anonymous Lover an example of great resilience and true excellence. Joseph Bologne Chevalier de Saint-Georges is one of these examples. MARIA TODARO STAGE DIRECTOR

H E A LT H & S A F E T Y

HEALTH AND SAFETY INFORMATION Commitment to Safety The health and safety of our staff, guests, and artists is our top priority, and we are following public safety guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Minnesota Department of Health. Below are the steps we are taking to ensure we operate in the safest way possible.

Mask policy Face masks will still be required at all times in the Ordway, regardless of vaccination status, except when actively eating or drinking in lobbies. Given the transmissibility of the Omicron variant, the Partnership has updated its mask policy to require non-cloth masks such as N95, KN95, KF94 and surgical masks. Non-cloth masks will be available at the Ordway upon arrival if needed courtesy of the Arts Partners.

Air quality The Ordway’s air system brings in fresh air from the outside to help limit the spread of airborne viruses like COVID-19. In addition, several updates have been made to further improve air safety inside the Ordway: • Upgraded the heating, ventilation and aircondition (HVAC) filtration to high-efficiency MERV 13 filters, following Minnesota Department of Health best practices. • Added HVAC controls and sensors to improve air velocity within the building and provide additional monitoring and control of the system by our facility engineers.

• Removed forced air hand dryers in all restrooms, which have been shown to disperse a high quantity of bacteria into the air and replaced them with paper towel dispensers.

Cleaning and sanitizing In addition to the robust cleaning practices that were already in place, we have: • Increased the frequency of cleaning throughout the building for high-touch areas in the front of house and back of house areas of the Ordway. • Added state-of-the-art practices including selfcleaning anti-microbial covers in high-touch areas where possible. • Set up hand-sanitizing stations throughout the venue. • Trained all employees in critical hand washing and cleaning guidelines. • Replaced waste receptacles with open top units so guests can throw out items without touching any surfaces.

Guest responsibility We ask that guests stay home if they are sick or exposed to COVID-19. Please contact the box office to transfer your tickets to another performance, donate your tickets, or request a refund. For questions, comments, or more information about the Arts Partnership’s commitment to keeping you safe, please contact Minnesota Opera’s ticket office at 612.333.6669 or hello@mnopera.org.

Minnesota Opera is a nonprofit charitable organization that relies on your support. • mnopera.org/donate

In light of the highly transmissible Delta and Omicron variants and increasing COVID-19 case numbers in Minnesota, we will require a COVID-19 booster shot for vaccinated audience members attending performances at the Ordway Center for the Performing Arts beginning February 1. Until further notice, audience members will be required to present either proof of their COVID-19 vaccination and booster shot, or a negative test result taken within 72 hours before a performance.

THE ANONYMOUS LOVER 2021–22

Vaccination policy

C A S T + C R E AT I V E T E A M

LEAH BRZYSKI

SYMONE HARCUM

ROCHESTER HILLS, MI

BALTIMORE, MD

JEANNETTE

Minnesota Opera Resident Artist Minnesota Opera Debut Albert Herring, 2021

Notable Engagements

LÉONTINE

Minnesota Opera Resident Artist Minnesota Opera Debut Ópera Afuera, 2021

Notable Engagements

Carmen, Minnesota Opera*

Le nozze di Figaro, Virginia Opera*

The Lord of Cries, Santa Fe Opera

Carmen, Minnesota Opera*

A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Santa Fe Opera

Pique Dame, Des Moines Metro Opera

Cendrillon, Opera Ithaca

La Cenerentola, Virginia Opera Aïda, Virginia Opera

CHRISTOPHER FRANKLIN

AARON KEENEY

PITTSBURGH, PA

HUNTINGDON, PA

CONDUCTOR

Minnesota Opera Debut La Cenerentola, 2011

Notable Engagements Tosca, Teatro Verdi Trieste*

Albert Herring, 2021

Notable Engagements Gods and Mortals, The Glimmerglass Festival

Adriana Lecouvreur, Opéra Royale de Wallonie*

Songbird, The Glimmerglass Festival

Turandot, San Francisco Opera

La bohème, Des Moines Metro Opera

Die Fledermaus, New National Theatre - Tokyo

Wozzeck, Des Moines Metro Opera

Peter Grimes, Palau de les Arts

L’elisir d’amore, Opera Naples Academy

ARI FULTON

JOSEPH LEPPEK

CHICAGO, IL

NOVI, MI

Minnesota Opera Debut The Anonymous Lover, 2022

Notable Engagements Nigerian Prince, Executively produced by Spike Lee Wonderful World: The Louis Armstrong Musical, Miami New Drama Confederates, written by Dominique Morisseau, The Signature Theatre High School Play, The Alley Theatre Off-Broadway, directed by Robert O’Hara, Streaming

EMMA GUSTAFSON

WIG, HAIR & MAKEUP DESIGN NORTH BRANCH, MINNESOTA

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Minnesota Opera Resident Artist Minnesota Opera Debut

Macbeth, New Zealand Opera*

COSTUME DESIGN

OPHÉMON

Minnesota Opera Debut Thaïs, 2018

Notable Engagements Annie, Children’s Theatre Company Pirates of Penzance, Utah Shakespeare Festival Albert Herring, Minnesota Opera The Wolves, Jungle Theater Roe, Mixed Blood Theatre

COLIN

Minnesota Opera Resident Artist Minnesota Opera Debut Albert Herring, 2021

Notable Engagements Carmen, Minnesota Opera* Susannah, Wolf Trap Opera* West Side Story, The Glimmerglass Festival The Abduction from the Seraglio, Lyric Opera of Kansas City L’Amant Anonyme, Wolf Trap Opera Viardot’s Cendrillon, Wolf Trap Opera

JENNIFER MACK

CO-CHOREOGRAPHER/ ACTOR: STÉPHANIE FÉLICITÉ DE GENLIS EYOTA & STEWARTVILLE, MN

Minnesota Opera Debut Rusalka, 2016

Notable Engagements Sleeping Beauty, St. Paul Ballet & Continental Ballet Dante’s Inferno, James Sewell Ballet Le Petite Moulin, Collide Theatrical Dance Company The Consul, An Opera Theater The Rape of Lucretia, An Opera Theater

C A S T + C R E AT I V E T E A M

STEPHAN MORAVSKI

CARLOS ENRIQUE SANTELLI

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA

ORLANDO, FL

SCENIC DESIGN

VALCOUR

Minnesota Opera Debut

The Anonymous Lover, 2022

Notable Engagements

Die tote Stadt, Bard Fisher Center

Romeo and Juliet, Houston Grand Opera*

Carmen, Fargo Moorhead Opera

Il barbiere di Siviglia, San Diego Opera

Carmen, Opera Naples

La Cenerentola, Dayton Opera

Bound, Fresh Squeezed Opera NYC

L’elisir d’amore, Virginia Opera

Aida, Opera Naples

Lucia di Lammermoor, Santa Fe Opera

Le Nozze di Figaro, Opera Naples

Salome, LA Opera

Tesla Opera, Colony Theatre Miami Cendrillon, Frost Opera Theatre

ZOIE REAMS

MARY SHABATURA

CHICAGO, IL

MINNEAPOLIS, MN

DOROTHÉE

LIGHTING DESIGN

Minnesota Opera Company Member Minnesota Opera Debut

Minnesota Opera Debut Fellow Travelers, 2018

Notable Engagments

Albert Herring, 2021

Notable Engagements

Albert Herring, Minnesota Opera

Carmen, Minnesota Opera*

Bernarda Alba, Theater Latté Da

Porgy and Bess, Metropolitan Opera

La Boheme: Rodolfo Remembers, Virginia Opera

Marian’s Song, Houston Grand Opera

Is God Is, Mixed Blood Theater

Rigoletto, Houston Grand Opera

Gloria: A Life, History Theater

La Traviata, Lyric Opera of Chicago

Chicago, Theater Latté Da

Everest, Chicago Opera Theatre Platée, Des Moines Metro Opera Carmen, Opéra Louisiane

HARRISON DAVID RIVERS

MARIA TODARO

ENGLISH DIALOGUE AND TRANSLATIONS

STAGE DIRECTOR PARIS, FRANCE.

ST. PAUL, MINNESOTA

Minnesota Opera Debut

Minnesota Opera Debut Art is a Verb, 2021

Notable Engagements

Tosca, The Phoenicia International Festival of Voice

the bandaged place, Roundabout Theatre Company

Carmen, Fargo Moorhead Opera

Broadbend, Arkansas, Public Theater/Transport Group

Elixir of Love, The Phoenicia International Festival of Voice

Where Storms Are Born, Williamstown Theatre Festival

Don Giovanni, South Dakota Symphony La Bohème, New Jersey Festival Orchestra

This Bitter Earth, Penumbra Theatre Company Five Points, Theatre Latté Da

DJENANE SAINT JUSTE

DOUG SCHOLZ-CARLSON

HAITI

MINNEAPOLIS, MN

CO-CHOREOGRAPHER

INTIMACY AND FIGHT DIRECTOR Minnesota Opera Debut

The Anonymous Lover, 2022

La Cenorentola, 1997 (chorus)

Notable Engagements

Konesans (Wisdom), 9th Annual Haitian Dance, Music and Arts Festival

Albert Herring, Minnesota Opera

Soley; Ibo; Zanmtelele; Tik-Tak, Minnesota Fringe Festival

Fire Shut Up in my Bones, Metropolitan Opera

La Fanciulla del West, Minnesota Opera Eurydice, Metropolitan Opera

Konbit, Minnesota Fringe Festival

Rigoletto, Metropolitan Opera

11th Annual Fakoly Drum and Dance Project 18 May, Annual Haiti Flag Day Festival, Alliance Française Rasanble, Creators Space

* indicates Upcoming Performance

THE ANONYMOUS LOVER 2021–22

Minnesota Opera Debut

Minnesota Opera is a nonprofit charitable organization that relies on your support. • mnopera.org/donate

The Anonymous Lover, 2022

ORCHESTRA AND CHORUS MINNESOTA OPERA ORCHESTRA VIOLIN I Allison Ostrander Concertmaster Natalia Moiseeva Asst. Concertmaster Julia Persitz David Mickens Angela Waterman Hanson Conor O’Brien Emilia Mettenbrink Mary Hutton

VIOLIN II Laurie Petruconis* Elise Parker+ Kseniya Khvashchynskaya Emily Saathoff Maisie Block Huldah Niles

VIOLA Emily Hagen* Susan Janda+ Laurel Browne Coca Bochonko Charles Krenner

CELLO Teresa Richardson* Sally Gibson Dorer+ Rebecca Arons Ruth Marshall

BASS John Michael Smith* Constance Martin+

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* Denotes principal players + Denotes assistant principal

FLUTE Bethany Summersgill* Catherine Ramirez

OBOE Michael Dayton* Jeffrey Marshak

BASSOON Coreen Nordling* Laurie Hatcher Merz

HORN Mike Alexander* Charles Hodgson

HARPSICHORD Celeste Marie Johnson*

MINNESOTA OPERA CHORUS SOPRANO Lisa Butcher Cloyd Madeline Huss Victoria Korovljev Kristin Morant

MEZZO-SOPRANO Cécile Crozat-Zawisza Jill Morgan Tara Priolo Eryn Tvete

TENOR Phinehas Bynum Erik Carlson James Pike Colyn Tvete

BARITONE/BASS Steve Dahlberg Joel Mathias Robert Riordan-Fulcher Tyrie Williams

ARE YOU 21–45? Learn more about the Tempo experience and get your tickets today!

mnopera.org/tempo | 612-333-6669

M–Th, 10am–5pm

Judy Dayton (1927-2021)

In 2001, after 30 years of dedication to the company, she was elected as a Director Emeritus. Judy supported all Minnesota Opera programs with great enthusiasm. She served as a member of the New Works Initiative and was an exuberant supporter of the Resident Artist Program from its inception.

As with every organization she supported, Judy left an indelible mark on Minnesota Opera. While our organization will never be the same without her, Judy’s passion and generosity will continue to burn bright as our organization, and the entire Twin Cities arts community, continues to thrive in the years to come.

PRESIDENT AND GENERAL DIRECTOR RYAN TAYLOR ALONGSIDE JUDY DAYTON - PHOTO BY THERESA MURRAY

THE ANONYMOUS LOVER 2021–22

Judy was a long-time board member at Minnesota Opera with her first term beginning in 1968.

Minnesota Opera is a nonprofit charitable organization that relies on your support. • mnopera.org/donate

The Minnesota Opera family joins the many individuals and arts organizations in the state of Minnesota and beyond in remembering and celebrating the life of Judy Dayton. Judy, the generous, ambitious, and passionate arts lover committed to advancing the Twin Cities arts and cultural communities, passed away on August 11, 2021 at the age of 94.

MEET THE ARTIST

Q&A MeettheArtist

SYMONE HARCUM A S L ÉON T I N E

e’re delighted to welcome soprano and Minnesota Opera Resident Artist Symone Harcum to the Ordway stage for the first time. Harcum is in her first year as a Minnesota Opera Resident Artist where she is singing the roles of Léontine in The Anonymous Lover and Micaëla in Bizet’s Carmen. This season, she will also make her professional debut as La Contessa in Le nozze di Figaro at Virginia Opera.

MINNESOTA OPERA MNOPERA.ORG

Harcum has previously performed as an apprentice artist at Des Moines Metro Opera and as a member of the 20192020 Herndon Foundation Emerging Artist Program at Virginia Opera. She was a finalist in both the Tri-Cities Opera Competition and the New York International Opera + Premiere Opera Vocal Competition and was recently named the first-place winner of the 2021 Opera Ithaca Competition.

After receiving her bachelor’s degree in Music Education from Norfolk State University in 2012, she worked as a choral director in Norfolk Public Schools until 2016. Harcum received her Master’s of Music from Peabody Conservatory at John’s Hopkins University and continues to study in the studio of Denyce Graves and Margaret Baroody. Recently, she sat down with us to chat about her role in The Anonymous Lover and what it’s like to perform for live audiences again.

What are the themes or messages of this piece that you think will resonate most with audiences? SH Well, of course there’s the deeply operatic theme of love. However, instead of the passion and tragedy of a high stakes love affair like we get with some of the other pieces in the repertoire, the story of The Anonymous Lover focuses on the very embarrassing beginnings of romance. The entire plot is driven by the awkwardness of not being able to tell someone how you really feel and the lengths to which the two lovers would go to remain invulnerable in the process.

It’s relatable for sure and I wouldn’t be surprised if one night, during the climax of the show, some impassioned audience member were to yell at the stage, “Just kiss her, already!”, driving the rest of the crowd to passionately agree. Not likely at the opera but a girl can dream.

What are some of the greatest joys and challenges of singing this role? SH The two are the same. Léontine is not an easy role to sing. Each aria and each duet puts a different technical skill to the test. The joy is in the challenge. It has to be.

This is the first time MN Opera audiences and artists will be back together at the Ordway for live operatic performances since the pandemic hit. How does it feel to be performing for live audiences again? SH It’s the best feeling in the world. Since the start of the pandemic, every

chance to perform live is such a gift. There is a joy in just singing, online or in person but the energy you get from a live audience cannot be replaced.

Is this your first Minnesota winter? If so, are you ready? What are you excited to see or do? SH This is my first Minnesota winter. I was not ready. The snow is beautiful to behold ... from inside. But, with all due respect to the amazing Minnesotans who love the winter, I am most excited to see it go.

M N O P E R A I N V I T E S YO U TO J O I N U S F O R

BEYOND THE GALA AN EXPERIENCE IN FOUR ACTS SAT U R DAY, APRIL 2, 2022 5 :30PM – 1 1 PM QUINCY H ALL 13 2 5 Q UINCY ST NE MI N N E A PO LIS , MINNE S OTA

H ON O R A RY C HA I R E L I Z AB E T H RE DLE AF

Individual Tickets start at $400, Tables of 4 start at $5,000 Creative fashion and formal attire are encouraged Limited sponsorship opportunities available. To request information about sponsorship opportunities or reserve your seats in advance please contact Leila Keïta at 612-342-9553 or lkeita@mnopera.org For more information, visit mnopera.org/gala

THE ANONYMOUS LOVER 2021–22

MN Opera artists and community partners who are making a direct and positive impact in our community.

Minnesota Opera is a nonprofit charitable organization that relies on your support. • mnopera.org/donate

A one-of-a-kind, immersive event in support of

Sultry, bold, daring. Music by Georges Bizet Libretto by Henri Meilhac and Ludovic Halévy

Perfect if you like Don Giovanni or La Traviata.

Season Sponsor

mnopera.org 612-333-6669

May 7-22, 2022 Sultry, bold, daring. When attraction turns to obsession, romance becomes dangerous. Carmen, an iconic and beautiful woman, is bound to live life on her own terms. But shortly after a corporal military officer falls for her, what begins as a passionate story of desire quickly turns into a struggle for liberation. Featuring some of the most popular music to ever grace the opera stage, Minnesota Opera’s Carmen brings every aspect of Bizet’s thrilling tale to life, from its tantalizing beginning to its devastating climax. UNDERSTAND EVERY WORD Sung in French with English translations. Co-produced by The Glimmerglass Festival and Minnesota Opera.

COMING SOON TO MN OPERA

March 27, 2022

B OA R D + S TA F F

STAFF EXECUTIVE

President and General Director | Ryan Taylor Executive Assistant to the President | Andrew Sun

ADMINISTRATIVE

Vice President, Administration and Board Relations | Theresa Murray Human Resources Director | Jen Thill LAB and Special Projects Director | Julia Gallagher

ADVANCEMENT

Vice President, Advancement | Lani Willis

DIRECTORS

DEVELOPMENT

Joelle Allen

Mary Lazarus

Patricia Beithon

Robert Lee

Meg Blake

Natalie Volin Lehr

Sharon Bloodworth

Feyneese Miller Ph.D.

Jane Confer

Kay Ness

Terrance Dolan

Jose Peris

Sidney W. Emery

James Powell

Gayle Fuguitt

Elizabeth Redleaf

Mark Gordon

Barton Reed

Dorothy Horns, M.D.

Mary Schrock

Mary IngebrandPohlad

Nadege Souvenir

Philip Isaacson

Missy Staples Thompson

Diane Jacobson Ph.D.

Wendy Unglaub

Deborah Jiang-Stein

William White

Anna Kokayeff, M.D.

Margaret Wurtele

Stephanie Kravetz

Wayne Zink

Philip Brunelle Liz Kochiras

Karen O. Bachman

Ruth Huss

John A. Blanchard, III

James E. Johnson

Susan Boren King Burton Cohen

Lucy Rosenberry Jones

Ellie Crosby

Kevin H. Smith

John Huss

Virginia Stringer

MINNESOTA OPERA MNOPERA.ORG

Mary W. Vaughan

PRODUCTION

Vice President, Production | Karen Quisenberry

MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS

Production Stage Manager | Emily Butzi Assistant Stage Managers | Tyler Fridley, Jerry K. Smith Resident Artist Assistant Stage Director | Emily Bishai

Patron Services Manager | Kevin Beckey Associate Patron Services Manager | Karl Annable Patron Services Representatives | Carol Corich, Henry Dykstal, Evy Johnson, Emily Ross

ARTISTIC

PR ES I D E N T ’ S COU NC I L

Associate Individual Giving Director | Jeremie Bur Associate Individual Giving and Fundraising Events Director | Leila Keïta Development Director | Diana Konopka Development Operations Coordinator | Jonathan Lundgren Associate Patron Relations Director | Kristin Matejcek Associate Institutional Giving Director | Hilary Smith Development Manager | Charlotte Summers

PATRON SERVICES

HONO RA RY D I REC TO R S

IMPACT

Vice President, Artistic | Joseph Li Head of Music | Allen Perriello Company Manager | Roxanne Stouffer-Cruz Associate Conductor and Chorus Director | Andrew Whitfield Artistic Department Coordinator | Salvatore S. Vasta III Company Artist | Zoie Reams Resident Artists | Emily Bishai, Leah Brzyski, Symone Harcum, Celeste Marie Johnson, Allen Michael Jones, Aaron Keeney, Joseph Leppek

PRODUCTION & FACILITIES

STAGING STAFF

SCENERY AND PROPERTIES

COSTUMES

FINANCE

TEMPO COUNCIL

Vice President, Finance | Gena Holland Controller | Janelle Erickson System Administrator | Tony Ngonekeo Staff Accountant | Chris Olsen

M EMBERS Sosha Brink Marjahn Golban Raegan Henderson Alison Jarzyna

Minnesota Opera is a proud member of The Arts Partnership with the Ordway Center for the Performing Arts,

Elijah Saiger

The Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra,

Jon Tollefson

and Schubert Club.

Minnesota Opera Patron Services 620 North First Street, Minneapolis, MN 55401 612-333-6669 Regular Hours: Monday-Thursday, 10am–5pm Performances: Weekdays— phones open at 2pm for evening performances and at 10:30am for matinee performances. Minnesota Opera staff will be available at the Ordway’s Ticket Office 90 minutes prior to curtain.

Voices United

Beyond the Gala

MARCH 27, 2022

APRIL 2, 2022

MN Opera Chorus in Concert. Join

Minnesota Opera presents our annual

Minnesota Opera for Voices United, a

fundraiser, Beyond the Gala: An

dynamic concert experience of opera hits

Experience in Four Acts. Taking place

and modern masterpieces. Starring the MN

live and in person, Beyond the Gala will

Opera Chorus, the MN Opera Orchestra,

be a spectacular evening, inspired by

as well as the celebrated gospel group

our season closing show, Carmen, and

Darnell Davis & The Remnant, Voices

benefitting the art and artists of MN Opera.

United celebrates the power of music and

Join us for an immersive evening, including

community. Be our guest as we take to the

a one-night-only performance you won’t

Ordway stage for a performance featuring

want to miss!

a variety of selections by Mozart, Verdi,

MNOPERA.ORG/BEYOND-THE-GALA

Ticket Policies Refunds are currently available. Additionally, any ticket may be returned for a tax-deductible donation up until curtain by calling the Minnesota Opera Patron Services. We will send a tax receipt to you acknowledging the value of the ticket, minus any applicable fees.

Carmen

Parking Prepaid parking is available for opera patrons at the Lawson Commons Ramp. Call 612-3336669 or visit mnopera.org to purchase passes.

Joplin, and more. MNOPERA.ORG/VOICES-UNITED

Sphinx Virtuosi: Tracing Visions APRIL 10, 2022

MAY 7-22, 2022 Sultry, bold, daring. When affection turns to obsession, romance becomes dangerous. Carmen, an iconic and

The Arts Partnership brings Sphinx

beautiful woman, is bound to live life on

Virtuosi back to the Ordway Center for

her own terms. But shortly after a corporal

the Performing Arts during the chamber

military officer falls for her, what begins as

groups national tour. The self-conducted

a passionate story of desire quickly turns

ensemble comprising the nation’s top

into a struggle for liberation. Featuring

Black and Latinx classical string soloists,

some of the most popular music to ever

will present their “Tracing Visions” program

grace the opera stage, Minnesota Opera’s

alongside local ensemble Border CrosSing

Carmen brings every aspect of Bizet’s

at 3 p.m. on Sunday April 10 in the Ordway

thrilling tale to life, from its tantalizing

Concert Hall. Tickets start at $7 for adults

beginning to its devastating climax.

and are free for all kids and students. Learn

MNOPERA.ORG/CARMEN

more and purchase tickets at ORDWAY.ORG/EVENTS/SPHINX-VIRTUOSIBORDER-CROSSING

Sphinx Virtuosi TRACING VISIONS SUNDAY, APRIL 10, 3:00PM ORDWAY CONCERT HALL, SAINT PAUL

mnopera.org Visit mnopera.org to watch behind-thescenes videos, read synopses, browse digital programs, and more. Join our e-club to receive special offers and opera news.

Accessibility For patrons with disabilities, wheelchairaccessible seats are available for select performances. Please call 612-333-6669 for details and indicate any special needs when ordering tickets. At the Ordway, accessible restrooms and other facilities are available, as well as Braille or large-print programs and infrared listening systems. For more information, please visit mnopera.org/access. Ordway Policies Ordway is a smoke-free facility. Latecomers will be seated at an appropriate break. Please have all cell phones and pagers turned to silent mode. Children under six are not permitted in the hall. Cameras and recording equipment are strictly prohibited in the theater. Please check items with an usher. Food and beverage are available for purchase prior to the show and during intermission. Water is allowed in the theater but food and other beverages are strictly prohibited. The phone number for emergencies is 651-224-4222. Please leave seat locations with the calling party. Lost and Found is located at the Stage Door. Call 651-282-3070 for assistance.

Tickets are $7 for adults. FREE for kids and students. VISIT ORDWAY.ORG/EVENTS/SPHINX-VIRTUOSI-BORDER-CROSSING OR CALL 651-224-4222 TO PURCHASE TICKETS.

Minnesota Opera is a nonprofit charitable organization that relies on your support. • mnopera.org/donate

Upcoming events

M I N N E S OTA O P E R A I N F O

THE ANONYMOUS LOVER 2021–22

UPCOMING EVENTS

INDIVIDUAL GIVING

THANK YOU M I N N E S O T A

O P E R A

R E C O G N I Z E S

INDIVIDUAL DONORS WHO HAVE MADE GIFTS TO OUR ANNUAL FUND, FUND-A-DREAM, OR SPECIAL INITIATIVES BETWEEN JULY 1, 2020-DECEMBER 13, 2021. THANK YOU FOR

MINNESOTA OPERA MNOPERA.ORG

SUPPORTING ART AND THE ARTISTS WHO CREATE IT.

Anonymous (4) Vanessa Abbe Kathleen R. Adix Emin and Britny Aklik Joelle Allen Richard Allendorf Arlene and Tom Alm Joy K. and J.C. Amel Katherine Anderson Laurie Anderson and Jon Hanson Renner and Martha Anderson Rolf T. Anderson Jaime Anthony Nina Archabal Kevin Armstrong Orn and Margret Arnar Eleanor Arnason Rebecca Arons and Thomas J. Basting Jr. Dan and Martha Goldberg Aronson Martha and H. Brewster Atwater Kay C. Bach Ms. Karen Bachman Thomas and Ann Bagnoli Josephine and Gordon Bailey Susanne and Johan Bakken Gail and James Bakkom Thomas and Jill Barland Jerald Barnard Mark Bayuk Longine Beck John and Julie Beckmann Patricia Beithon Kim and Carol Bemis Sue A. Bennett Gerald and Phyllis G. Benson Carol J. Bergeson Kenneth J. Berglund John and Cindy Beukema Mr. William Biermaier and Mr. David Hanson Sharon Bigot David Bjork and Jeff Bengston Michelle Blaeser Stephen and Margaret Blake Mary and Gus Blanchard Sharon Bloodworth and Barrett Johnson Susan Bloyer Martin and Patricia Blumenreich Kenneth and Peggy Bonneville Susan Boren King William and Margaret Bracken Al Bradley Gerald Bradley Philip Bradley James Salutz and Margaret Brandl

Barbara and William Brauer Sosha M. Brink Drs. Eli and Jan Briones Melanie Broida Werl Roger and Ronnie Brooks Joan Broughton Aaron Brown Cheryl Brown Thomas and Joyce Bruckner Erik Bruun Stephen Bubul and Lee Lewis Julie Bucknam Samuel Reid Burgin Jimmy Burnett Richard Burquist and Robert Murphy Paula and Paul Butzi Lee J. Bynum James Callahan Susan Calmenson and Vince Leo Chris and Claire Campbell Renee Campion and David Walsh Jon L. Schasker* and Debbie Carlson Donna Carlson George and Joan Carlson Ms. Laurie Carlson and Mr. William Voedisch Mari Carlson Ruth Carp Richard and Darlene Carroll Dr. Mark and Denise Carter Miguel Castañeda Alberto Castillo and Judith Garcia Galiana Paul Chase Rachelle Chase and John Feldman Mary and James Chastek Josephine Chervenak William and Nancy Child David and Wanda Cline George and Louise Clitty Rusty and Burt Cohen Gary B. Cohen Mr. and Ms. Jim Collins Cinda Collins Brenda Colwill Andrew Compton Jane M. and Ogden W. Confer Kay Constantine Paul Coons Benjamin and Laura Cooper Gisela Corbett and Peter Hyman Nicholas and Margaret Cords Mrs. Jeanne E. Corwin Stephen and Joan Costello Jeffrey and Barbara Couture Susan and Richard Crockett

Mrs. Eleanor Crosby Helen and John Crosson Gretchen Davidson Mary Davidson Fran Davis Stephen Davis and Murray Thomas Julia W. Dayton* Jay and Rebecca Debertin Edgar A. DeGuia Daniel deJongh Mrs. Susan DeNuccio Luke Dewall Eugene DiMagno Robert Dingmann and Ethan Reynolds Terrance and Susan Dolan Sara and Jock Donaldson Maureen and John Drewitz David Dudycha and Dorothy Vawter Dr. Donald A. Duncan Curtis Dunnavan Timothy Dykstal Dr. Mary A. Ebert and Paul Stembler Laura and Tim Edman Hugh and Joyce Edmondson Andrea Een Holli and Stefan Egerstrom Maria Eggemeyer Ludmila Eklund Anne Elstrom-Park Vicki and Chip Emery Janelle Erickson Rondi Erickson and Sandy Lewis* Anne Ewing Ms. Ann Fankhanel Patricia Farnham Mr. Craig Feathers and Ms. Amy Kolan Kathleen Fendt George Ferguson Kathryn Fernholz Julia and Brian Finstad Gail Fiskewold Mr. John J. Flynn and Ms. Deborah Pile Kathryn Foley Jinnet Fowles Salvatore Silvestri Franco Patricia R. Freeburg Iris Freeman and Warren Woessner Bill and Bonnie Frels Diane Friebe Gayle Fuguitt and Tom Veitch Thomas Furey Martha Gabbert Mary and Jay Gallagher Carol and Michael Garbisch

Greta and Paul Garmers Nancy K. Geertz-Larson Leland and Beverly Gehrke Drs. Susan and William Gerberich James and Teddy Gesell Walt and Raeanna Gislason Bill and Paula Glade James Glazier Marcia Glick John Goetz Barbara Golden Mark Gordon and Anne Zweibel Richard and Marsha Gould David Gregerson Dr. Richard Gregory Kathleen M. Grendzinski Jan Grimes Keralyn Groff Jennifer Gross and Jerry LeFevre Beverly N. Grossman Bruce and Jean Grussing S. Asim Gul Heather Haakenson Ms. Susanne Haas and Mr. Ross Formell Robin Keyworth and Steven Haasl Laurie Hacking Leif Hagen Donald and Marion Hall Mark and Lana Halldorson Charles Hample Anne Hanley and George Skinner Ms. Kathleen Hannon Laurie Hansen Lowell Hanson Maureen and Mike Harms Ms. Kathryn C. Harper John W Harris Michele Harris and Peter Tanghe Alfred and Ingrid Harrison Sharon Hawkins John Heer Mr. Don Helgeson and Ms. Sue Shepard Stefan and Lonnie Helgeson Christopher Hermann Mary K. Hicks Cliffton and Sharon Hill Mr. Jonathan E. Hill Linda and John Hoeschler Shirley Hogan Mrs. Jean M. Holten Karen and Brian Hopps James Richardson and Dorothy Horns Arthur and Fran Horowitz Burton and Sandra Hoverson

Diana Lee Lucker Juanita B. Luis Holly MacDonald and John Orbison Mr. David MacMillan and Ms. Judith Krow Dr. Joan E. Madden Christine Martin Christine Martinez William and Carole Martino Sally and Don Mason Kristin and Jim Matejcek Roy and Dorothy Ann Mayeske Sean McAleer Barbara McBurney Laura McCarten Tracy McCauley Samuel and Patty McCullough Jeninne McGee Mr. and Mrs. Chris McHugh Harvey Thomas McLain Robert and Larae McPartlin Deb and Jon McTaggart Frances W. McVittie Mary Ann and John Mecom Adele Mehta Mrs. Walter Meyers Estate John L. Michel and H. Berit Midelfort Jackie Millea Anne and Eldon Miller David Miller and Mary Dew Fayneese Miller Mr. John Miller Karla Miller Jim Miner and John Easton Diane Mini and David Carroll Mr. and Mrs. Michael Mollerus Mr. Bradley H. Momsen and Mr. Richard H. Buchholz Jodi and Michael Mooney Dr. and Mrs. Alfred Moore Leni and David Moore Jim Mornes Sandy and Bob Morris Ms. Jill Mortensen and Ms. S. Kay Phillips Kimberly and David Motes William and Imelda Muggli Kelly Murphy Elizabeth Murray Theresa, Jim and Nicole Murray Thomas Murtha and Stefanie Ann Lenway Alexandra Muschenheim Mr. William Myers and Ms. Virginia Dudley Sarah L. Nagle Fritz A. Nelson and Mina Fisher Ingrid Nelson Richard and Nancy Nelson Mr. Merritt C. Nequette Kay Ness and Chris Wolohan From the Family of Richard C. and Elizabeth B. Longfellow Lucia Newell and Steven Wiese Jay and Helen Newlin Richard and Joan Newmark Richard and Nancy Nicholson Elizabeth and Neal Nordling Brandon and Melissa Novy Gayle and Timothy Ober Carl Oberg Robert Olafson Chris Olsen & Shannon Rhatigan Dennis R. Olson Kathleen Olson Reverend and Mrs. Robert A. Onkka Ruth and Ahmad Orandi Candyce Osterkamp Dede Ouren Anne Paape Luis Pagan-Carlo and Joseph Sammartino Scott J. Pakudaitis Julia and Brian Palmer Derrill Pankow Mrs. Patricia Panshin Chris Paola Elizabeth Parker

Lisa Pasquale JoAnn Pasternack Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Patterson Karen Paul James A. Payne Suzanne and William Payne Amanda Peel Mr. Craig Peifer and Mr. Lawrence Lozano Lana K. Pemberton Sandra Penning Jose Peris and Diana Gulden Anthony Person and Rebecca Augustine Jane M. Persoon Dwight and Marjorie Peterson Thomas Peterson Corine and John Petraborg Mrs. Sydney Phillips Ms. Michele Pierce Mr. Brian Pietsch Dale Pillsbury Ona and Wayne Pinsonneault Mary Ann Polley Anne and John Polta Christina and Dwight Porter Lorraine Potuzak James Powell and Mitchell Czeh Cheryl Price Sally Pyle Shawn and Elizabeth Raiter Archana Ramaswamy Marylu Ramirez Elizabeth Redleaf Lawrence Redmond Sigrid Larson and Dave Redpath Barton and Kimberly Reed Peter Reed Sara Reed Jeanne and Richard Reierson Herbert and Jane Reiman Constance and Lewis Remele Paul and Mary Reyelts Ann Richter Mr. Philip Rickey Genevieve and John Ries Laurence and Edis Risser Mallory Roberts and Jonathan Lilienthal Annemarie Robertson Ann K. Rocknem Robert E. Rocknem Mrs. Sandra Roe Thomas and Nancy Rohde Patricia and Don Romanaggi Mrs. Liane A. Rosel Diane Rosenwald Christopher Ross Ken and Nina Rothchild David and Kathleen Rothenberger Peter Rothstein Dr. Marian R. Rubenfeld and Dr. Frederick G. Langendorf Andrea and James Rubenstein Hung Russell Jennifer Russell Dr. Terry Saario and Mr. Lee Lynch Christine Sagstetter John Sakowski Sampson Family Charitable Foundation Karen Sandberg Mary Savina Thomas and Natascha Saylor Bill and Janet Schaeder Mahlon and Karen Schneider Margaret Schommer Mary H. and Christian G. Schrock Richard and Carol Seaberg Alan E. Shapiro Dr. Frank and Lynda Sharbrough Gale Sharpe Len Shelhamer Rebecca and John Shockley Cherie and Bob Shreck Juliana and Bernie Simmons Kathleen K. Simo Madeline Simon

Linda and Jesse Singh Roy and Lana Sjoberg Rhonda Skoby Darryl L. Smith John Michael M. Smith Kevin and Lynn Smith Linnea Sodergren Sarah Sotos Nadege Souvenir and Joshua Dorothy Kristi and Mark Specker Daniel and Marilyn Spiegel Mr. Jon Spoerri and Ms. Debra Christgau Nancy Sponaugle Biruta and Andris Spruds Missy Staples Thompson Brian Staufenbiel Julie and Bruce Steiner John Stephenson Linda Stinson Barbara Stoll Warren Stortroen Roxanne Stouffer Cruz Virginia and Edward Stringer Carley and Bill Stuber William Stuckey and Kelly Baker Greg Sullivan and Annie Frazer John Sullivan Oakley and Susan Surine Vern Sutton Craig and Janet Swan Jerry Swenson Joseph Tachovsky Ryan Taylor Lester Temple Joyce Thielen Andrew J. Thomas, MD Jenny and Dave Thomas Kay Thomas Marie J. Thomas John and Jill Thompson Ms. Jean Thomson Lucy Thrasher Debra R. Ting Jon Tollefson & Josh Crosson Josephine Trubek Wendy and Paul Unglaub Kenneth and Kathryn Valentas Stephanie C. Van D’Elden Mary W. Vaughan Catherine Vesley Virginia Kirby Vilis and Aija Vikmanis John Vilandre Daniel Vogel Natalie Volin Lehr H. Bernt von Ohlen and W. Thomas Nichol David Wagner Gregory Waibel Stephanie and Craig Walvatne David L. Ward Dr. and Mrs. Herbert B. Ward Drs. Greg Weber and James Barnett Martha West Nancy and Ted* Weyerhaeuser Mrs. Barbara White John and Sandy White Jeff Wiemiller and Joe Anderson Paul and Carolynn Wiggin Barb Wildes Wendy Wildung David and Rachelle Willey Mr. and Mrs. Christopher N. Williams Emerson L. Williams John M. Williams James and Barbara Willis Lani Willis and Joel Spoonheim Ann P. Winchester John W. Windhorst Jr. Ray and Jean Witter Judith Woodward Margaret V. B. Wurtele John Zelenka Wayne Zink and Christopher Schout

THE ANONYMOUS LOVER 2021–22

Linda Hulbert and Alan Rissman Benjamin W. Hulse and Maureen C. Sheehan Kathleen and Robert Humphrey Mark and Kathleen Humphrey Dr. and Mrs. Thomas Hurwitz Ms. Mary Husband and Jeffrey Husband Ruth and John Huss Mary Ingebrand-Pohlad Jill Irvine Crow Mr. and Mrs. Philip Isaacson Mr. J David Jackson Diane and Paul Jacobson Mark and Jeanne Jacobson Ms. Susan A. Janda Ronald and Deborah Jans Clayton Jelinek Barbara Jenkins Janet Johanson Allison Johnson Charlie Johnson Dale A. Johnson Patricia Johnson and Kai Bjerkness Bryce and Paula Johnson Suzanne Johnson Janet N. Jones Lucy Rosenberry Jones and James E. Johnson Ms. Marcia Jones Nancy Jones Dr. Charles and Sally Jorgensen Dr. Robert and Susan Josselson John and Kathleen Junek Phyllis Kahn Susan Kalmer John Kaplan Kristine Kaplan Ed and Martha Karels James and Jane Kaufman Kathleen Keating and Richard Haskett Kathryn Keefer Michael and Sheue Keenan Erwin and Miriam Kelen Patty and Warren Kelly Yulia Khayde Robert Kieft Carole and Joseph Killpatrick Melissa and Peter Kim Blaine and Lyndel King Mrs. Margaret V. Kinney Judith A Kinsey Andrea M. Kircher Varvara Kirchner Arthur and Milly Klassen John Klein Mrs. James S. Kochiras Anna Kokayeff Douglas Koons Mr. Kyle E. Kossol and Mr. Tom Becker Stephanie Kravetz Dr. Robert L. Kriel and Dr. Linda E. Krach Janet Krofta Ryan Kruizenga Robert and Venetia Kudrle Robert and Barbara Kueppers Constance and Daniel Kunin James Kunz Christl and Andrew Larson Ms. Sandra Larson Kenyon S. Latham Mary Ash and Barry Lazarus Mrs. Cynthia and Dr. Lawrence Lee David and Darlene Lee Karen Sonia Lee Robert L. Lee and Mary E. Schaffner Jean LeJeune Peggy and Ilo Leppik Susan Leppke David and Diane Lilly Katy Linblad James Lindell William F. Long Paul Lorton, Jr. Natalie Losik

Minnesota Opera is a nonprofit charitable organization that relies on your support. • mnopera.org/donate

INDIVIDUAL GIVING

SPECIAL GIVING LEGACY CIRCLE The following lists donors who, through their foresight and generosity, have included Minnesota Opera in their wills or estate plans. Anonymous Mrs. Mary Abbe Paul and Valerie Ackerman Thomas O. Allen Dr. and Mrs. Rolf Anderassen* Mary A. Andres Ms. Karen Bachman Thomas and Ann Bagnoli Patricia Beithon Al Bradley Susan Boren King C.T. Bundy II Margaret M. Carasik Debbie Carlson George and Joan Carlson Richard and Darlene Caroll Julie and Dan Cross Julia W. Dayton*

NAMED ENDOWMENT FUNDS The following endowment funds, created by visionary and generous donors, continue the work of Minnesota Opera for future generations. Art of Singing Endowment Fund

To support exceptional training for Resident Artists by providing learning opportunities with leading artists and experts.

COMMEMORATIVE GIFTS The following lists donors who have made gifts in honor or in memory of a loved one between July 1, 2020 and December 31, 2021 Anne Mollerus

Michael and Judith Mollerus

Clara Osowski Barbara Brown John A. Michel

Coreen Nordling

John and Sibylle Miller

MINNESOTA OPERA MNOPERA.ORG

Darlene Mueller

Tamera Bisping

Diana Whitecross

Mr. Peter William Riola, Sr

Dr. Everett Vern Sutton

Donald Helgeson and Sue Shepard

Eva and Peter Weyandt Michael Weyandt

Jenn Maatman Jeffrey Gigler

Jon and Anna McVittie Szafranski Frances W McVittie

Judy Lear

Barbara Kelly

Julie Greif

Anne E Susag

Charles Denny* Ms. Susan Doty Anne P. Ducharme Dre. Mary A. Ebert and Paul Stembler Rondi Erickson and Sandy Lewis* Mrs. Ester L. Fesler Salvatore Silvestri Franco Daniel E. Freeman Charles J. Frisch Dr. Paul Froeshl Katy Gaynor Mrs. Ellen Green Michelle Hackett Russell and Priscilla Hankins Elfrieda Hintze Mrs. Jean M. Holten John Humleker and Cordelia Anderson Dr. Charles and Sally Jorgensen Dr. Robert and Susan Josselson John and Kathleen Junek Dr. Markle Karlen Mary H. Keithahn Patty and Warren Kelly Blaine and Lyndel King Sally and Bill King

James and Liz Krezowski Dr. Robert L Kriel and Dr. Linda E. Krach Robert and Venetia Kudrie Jim Lawser and Duane Bandel Gerald and Joyce Lillquist Dawn M. Loven David Mayo Barbara McBurney Mary McDiarmid Mary Bigelow McMillan Mrs. Walter Meyers Estate John L. Michel and H. Berit Midelfort Karla Miller Kay Ness and Chris Wolohan Richard and Joan Newmark Scott J. Pakudaitis Derrill Pankow Mrs. Sydney Phillips Ms. Phyllis Price Brian and Patricia Prokosch Mrs. Liane A. Rosel Ken and Nina Rothchild Mary Savina Jon L. Schasker* Josef Schermann

Mary H. and Christian G. Schrock Dr. Frank and Lynda Sharbrough Robert Shearer and Joan Gustafson Mr. Drew Steward and Ms. Anna Hargreaves Mr. Gregory C. Swinehart and Ms. Mitra Walter Dr. Anthony Thein Stephanie C. Van D’Elden Mary W. Vaughan H. Bernt von Ohlen and W. Thomas Nichol William White Mr. Harvey Zuckman and Mr. Phillip Oxman

Barbara White Bemis Fund for Artistic Enhancement

Founders Endowment Fund

Valerie and Paul Ackerman Endowment Fund

The appearances of Leah Brzyski, district winner, Joseph Leppek, national semi-finalist, Zoie Reams, regional winner, and Carlos Santelli, winner of the Metropolitan Opera National Council Auditions are made possible by this fund.

Daniel E. Freeman Endowment Fund To support Minnesota Opera’s education programs.

Dolly Fiterman Fund for New Production Opera Design

To support the creation of new productions by proving funds to engage designers and create new sets.

To support new and innovative opera performances that honor the spirit, energy, and creativity of the founders in the beginning days of the Center Opera.

Joan Jacobs Rubenfeld Memorial Fund To support the attendance of high school students at MN Opera performances.

Minnesota Opera Center Preservation Fund

To support Opera Center building improvements. The Preservation Fund recognizes the legacies of Judson Bemis and Kevin Smith, who through their leadership created the Opera Center.

For more information on making estate plan arrangements, please contact Diana Konopka at 612-342-9565 * in remembrance

To support the attendance of youth at Minnesota Opera performances.

Virginia L. Stringer Endowment of the Minnesota Opera Resident Artist Program

To support the Resident Artist Program. The appearance of the Resident Artists in this production is made possible this endowment fund.

William Randolph Hearst Endowment for Education and Outreach Programs

To support Minnesota Opera’s education and outreach programs

Lani Willis and Joel Spoonheim

Alan Klevit

Judy Anderson Brindley

MN Opera Costume Department

Alyda Mini

Judy Dayton

Mr. Dale A. Johnson

Arthur and Judith Brindley

Mrs. Elizabeth Kochiras

Daniel Gacki

Mrs. Theresa A. Murray

Daniel Prins

Ms. Natalie Losik

Dean and Karin Phillips

Ms. Susan A Janda

Elfrieda Hintze

Nancy and Clyde Gerber

Elisabeth and John Heefner

Natalie Losik

Enrique Rotstein

Robert and Barbara Kueppers

Eva Csathy

Katherine Magy Maria Ramirez

Brian Staufenbiel

Kochiras Family Fund

Schmiechen Charitable Fund The Losik Savage Charitable Gift Fund Mr. John Zelenka

Patricia Cavanaugh

The Losik Savage Charitable Gift Fund Carroll Cisek Caroline Wilbrecht

Ruth and John Huss

Sally and Thomas Patterson

Roland Hanson

I.U.P.A.T. District Council No. 5

Sean Dorsey and Kara Eliason Dorsey Brian Henry

Vicki Wheeler

Kurt Wheeler

Wendy Mullins

Anne E Susag

Anonymous Diana Mini and David Carroll Eric Brindley

Boren Family Fund Janet Johanson Jan and Janet Phillips Linda King

Elisabeth and John Heefner

Timothy and Susanna Lodge Eva Weyandt

Irene Browning

Paul Zerby and Ann Browning Zerby

Joan Jacobs Rubenfeld Marian Rubenfeld

Joan M. Nagle

Ms. Sarah Nagle

Jon Schasker

Deborah Carlson

Joy Smiley Zabala

Emerson L Williams

Judson and Carol Bemis Sandra Roe

Arthur and Judith Brindley Mrs. Christine Galloway Ruth and John Huss

Judy Lear

David Ward

Julia Dayton

Rachelle Chase and John Feldman

Marilyn Johnson

Christopher Peterson

Mark Lindblad

Ms. Kathleen S Lindblad

Michael Birt

Ms. Maria Eggemeyer

Mr. Gordon Ray Travis Susan Travis

Mr. Robert E. Rocknem Ann Kristen Rocknem

Mrs. Myrtle Grette IvaNell Monson

My Parents who were lovers of opera Mr. Peter Douglas

Neal Viemeister Virginia Kirby

Paige Duncan

Miss Caroline Foster Duncan

Ruth Bader Ginsburg Ms. Liz Lew

Scott Krenz

Emerson L Williams

INSTITUTIONAL GIVING MINNESOTA OPERA G R A T E F U L LY A C K N O W L E D G E S ITS MAJOR INSTITUTIONAL SUPPORTERS:

This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a Minnesota State Arts Board Operating Support grant, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the arts and cultural heritage fund.

THE ANDREW W.

MELLON FOUNDATION

Art and Martha Kaemmer Fund of the HRK Foundation

Fred C. and Katherine B. Andersen Foundation

MINNESOTA OPERA MNOPERA.ORG

Anna M. Heilmaier Charitable Foundation

MAHADH Fund of the HRK Foundation

Dellwood Foundation

Margaret Rivers Fund

Romanaggi Foundation

Anonymous (2)

The Elizabeth C. Quinlan Foundation

Mayo Clinic

Schwegman, Lundberg, & Woessner P.A.

Best Buy Foundation

Ernst & Young

Boss Foundation

Faegre Baker Daniels

Curtis L. Carlson Foundation

Hutter Family Foundation Kitselman Foundation

McVay Foundation Onan Family Foundation Pachel Foundation Peravid Foundation RBC Foundation

Sit Investment Services Tennant Foundation Travelers Xcel Energy Foundation

For information on making a corporate or foundation contribution to Minnesota Opera, please contact Hilary Smith, Associate Institutional Giving Director, at hsmith@mnopera.org.

MI NNE S OTA O PE RA S E AS O N S PO NS O R

St. Philip the Deacon is delighted to celebrate excellence in music and the fair and glorious gifts of the Minnesota Opera.

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Minnesota Opera's The Anonymous Lover

Articles inside

Institutional Giving

MN Opera Donor Appreciation

Composer

Director’s Notes

Health and Safety Information

Judy Dayton Memoriam

Carmen Preview

Meet the Artist

Upcoming Events and MN Opera Information

Synopsis