Ars Lyrica Houston’s upcoming production of “Amadigi di Gaula” on Friday, May 24 & Saturday, May 25 is a captivating journey into the world of Baroque opera. Composed by George Frideric Handel in 1715, this magic opera tells a dramatic story of romance, heroism, and sorcery.
Ars Lyrica is known for its historically informed Baroque performances, which means audiences will hear music played on period instruments and enjoy singing styles true to the era. Acclaimed opera stars and a full Baroque orchestra led by Artistic Director Matthew Dirst bring the work to life. Under the brilliant stage direction of Tara Faircloth, the entire Zilkha Hall stage will be transformed into a realm of fantasy and magic.
https://www.arslyricahouston.org/amadigidigaula
Dirst shares that the upcoming production of Amadigi di Gaula will be the “local premiere of this work. As with our production of Handel’s Agrippina in 2018, Ars Lyrica continues to offer the best of Baroque opera, bringing to life works that Houston audiences have not yet seen. This particular opera makes for a terrific culmination of our current season as well, which celebrates twenty years of period-instrument magic!”
In the title role of Amadigi is countertenor Randall Scotting, described to have “an exceptionally powerful countertenor voice” (TheatreReview). Amadigi’s love interest, Oriana, will be performed by “especially impressive” (NY Times) soprano Nola Richardson, who returns to the Zilkha Hall stage after delighting Ars Lyrica’s audiences at the season opener in the fall.
Another familiar face will return for the role of Dardano: countertenor Nicholas Garza, who performed in Dido and Aeneas with a “rich and powerful” voice and “stage presence that commands attention… simply fun to watch” (ACTX). Finally, HGO studio alumna and soprano Raven McMillon will complete the brilliant cast of four stars. McMillon will bring her “bright, crisp, silvery” (Parterre Box) tone to the role of sorceress Melissa.
With regards to working with the cast and crew, Dirst shares that they have had “great collaboration so far and much fun. Many of us have worked together before, which means a certain level of trust about others’ creativity and judgment. Our cast includes some wonderfully accomplished Handelians, who know the style well and deliver on stage. I’m looking forward to some imaginative play with this gorgeous music.”
Following the 5/25 Saturday night performance of Amadigi di Gaula, Ars Lyrica will host a 20th Anniversary Post-Opera Soirée, where guests are invited to gather with artists, directors, and fellow patrons at Diana American Grill for a celebratory end to the evening with food and drink. Proceeds from the soirée will support Ars Lyrica Opera Circle, helping ensure a future for Baroque opera in Houston.