Welcome to Opera Colorado’s final production of the 2017-18 season—and the first production of Verdi’s Falstaff that we’ve presented in nearly thirty years. This sophisticated Shakespearean gem was the composer’s final opera, and one of just two comedies he ever tackled. It’s perhaps been overshadowed by his many other masterworks, but through no fault of its own: not only is Falstaff full of laughs, it’s also a true ensemble piece that is simply brimming with all the glorious music you’d expect from Verdi. The revelry of Falstaff offers a perfect way to wrap up an Opera Colorado season that has offered so much to applaud. Both the season-opening production of La Bohème and the world premiere production of Steal a Pencil for Me were artistic triumphs and near sell-outs, thanks to the enthusiastic support of patrons like you. Opera Colorado’s first Masked Ball was an evening to remember, and raised funds to be put to good use by the company’s Education and Community Programs—which this season touched the lives of nearly 40,000 students of all ages. And the return of popular Scene Change events like our Sip & Sing series and An Afternoon of American Song offered audiences the chance to hear unique programs in exciting venues throughout our community.
VERDI NOV. 3 6 9 11 2018
And while Falstaff may be our final production of the season, there’s still more in store before we officially close 201718. We invite you to join us on May 20 for a celebration of this year’s exceptional Opera Colorado Young Artists, and again on June 2 for our annual Spring Tea (learn more on pgs. 14 and 21). The 2018-19 season will likewise offer many delights, including opulent productions of two of the most beloved works in the repertoire: Verdi’s tragic romance La Traviata and Mozart’s brilliant comedy The Marriage of Figaro. Both are on sale now via subscription, and subscribers to 2018-19 have had the first opportunity to purchase tickets for next season’s Scene Change opera: a double-bill of one-act operas After Life and Josephine by Tom Cipullo. The response has been tremendous; all performances of this intimate double-bill, still nearly a year away, are already sold out! (See pgs. 8-10 for more information about next season.) As we prepare for the end of one season and the start of another, all of us at Opera Colorado thank you for making 2017-18 so memorable. We hope you enjoy this performance of Falstaff, and look forward to seeing you back at the Ellie Caulkins Opera House this fall. Sincerely,
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Greg Carpenter
Kevin O’Connor
Ari
General & Artistic Director
Chairman of the Board
Music Director
Pelto
2018-19 SEASON
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OPERA COLORADO
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