Verdi’s Nabucco, Opera in Concert!

On September 19 & 21, Calgary Concert Opera offers a production of Verdi’s ‘Nabucco’ – the first time the opera has been performed in Calgary in 30 years.

‘Nabucco’ tells the Biblical story of the Jews as they are conquered and exiled by Nabucco, the king of the Babylonian empire. What makes this opera relevant for today’s audience? The opera tells a story about people displaced from their traditional homeland, longing to return: a theme that has considerable prevalence in today’s world. The story tells a message of unity and hope that will emote a sense of strength and, in the end, reconciliation – a hopeful message in a time of relative uncertainty for many. What makes this production special? ‘Nabucco’ is well-known because of the famous “Chorus of the Hebrew Slaves”, the famed “Va, pensiero”. This well-known chorus has become a metaphor for hope and resilience. For this production, we have assembled a chorus of people from across southern Alberta — from Sylvan Lake all the way to Okotoks and High River — anchored by the Foothills Philharmonic Opera Chorus. It’s a fantastic opportunity to see your friends and neighbours sing this extraordinary music. This also marks the first time in 30 years that ‘Nabucco’ will be performed. Verdi is one of the most beloved composers of grand opera. His works have been performed in the city recently, including Macbeth and La Traviata. Finally, we’ve assembled a tremendous all-Canadian cast to tell this story — many of whom are based in Alberta. We’re led by Toronto-based conductor William Shookhoff as our one-man orchestra. Shookhoff is a respected conductor, pianist and vocal coach, and is the artistic director of Opera By Request in Toronto. Toronto-based baritone Michael Robert-Broder takes on the demanding role of Nabucco, with a talented supporting cast from all over Alberta. Cast: Michael Robert-Broder (Toronto) – Nabucco Krista de Silva (Calgary) – Abigaille, supposedly the elder daughter of Nabucco (no spoilers!) Barbara King (Calgary) – Fenena, daughter of Nabucco Bertrand Malo (Edmonton) – Zaccaria, the high priest of the Jews Melissa Jackson (Calgary) – Anna, sister of Zaccaria Dan Rowley (Edmonton) – Ismaele, nephew of the king of Jerusalem Oliver Peplowski (Calgary) – the High Priest of Baal Jason Ragan (Calgary) – Abdallo, a Babylonian soldier Calgary Concert Opera will perform ‘Nabucco’ in two different Calgary-area locations. September 19, 2024 – 7 PM Lutheran Church of the Cross – 10620 Elbow Drive SW, Calgary, AB T2W 1G4 Tickets online or at the door: Adults – $25+fees Students under 17 – $15+fees Free parking September 21, 2024 – 7 PM Polaris Centre Theatre – Bay #7, 261051 Wagon Wheel View, RockyView County, AB Tickets online only: Premium A – $40+fees Standard B – $35+fees Standard C – $30+fees Students – $15 to $20+fees Advanced Tickets: https://www.polariscentre.ca/nabucco