Macbeth at the LA Opera with Verdi and Placido.

The opening of the opera season is always a beautiful event. This year’s production of Macbeth was exceptional. The tragedy of ambition run wild, which is so frequently a part of dramatic operas, was beautifully portrayed. The voices of Placido and Ekaterina Semenchuk were unbelievable and elicited frequent applause from the audience. Tony Award-winner Darko Tresnjak (director of the 2015 hit The Ghosts of Versailles) fabulously juxtaposed contemporary staging against the traditional beauty and drama of the story. Verdi’s music, conducted by James Conlon, was a perfect complement to the drama of this Shakespearian tragedy. I was fortunate to be included with so many old friends at the wonderful black-tie gala following the opera; it was in a beautiful setting on the plaza in front of the Music Center. A black-tie event always adds a special feeling. Placido Domingo is such a gift to L.A. with his incredible voice and fabulous musical talent. Congratulations to Mary Hailey who chaired the event. It was an amazing success with raving reviews from the LA Times. For more information and to purchase tickets please visit the website http://www.laopera.org/season/16-17-season/macbeth/.