Rigoletto
Atlanta Opera
through November 12, 2023

Giuseppi Verdi told folks that he thought Rigoletto was his best opus. And, if you attend the Atlanta Opera’s presentation of it; you’ll have no doubt as to his comments. The Opera’s artistic director, Tomer Zvulun directs this huge cast of players, starring George Gagnidze as Rigoletto; a role he has sung with great bravado in more than 100 venues around the world. Rigoletto’s daughter, Gilda, (Jasmine Habersham) is the object of his devotion in a way that doesn’t always work out so well. He may be overly-protective. C;est la vie!

With a principal ast of 12 players, the total number of players is many times that number with a huge live orchestra and more than 20 of the male voices of the Opera Chorus who appear onstage in the production. Not that thy all overpower the effect of the clowns. Like many deeply plotted shows, this one deals with human relationships and reactions. And there may be a silent suggestion that revenge, per se, if obtained by reaction, may not always be as satisfying as one may have hoped for. But, that’s life, . . . is it not?

The production is world class and closes mid-month. They are playing at the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Center in Cumberland. Leave some extra time to fight your way along 75, 285 and/or 400. Traffic is terrible week nights but eases on weekends. For sets and more info visit their website at AtlantaOpera.org