In Italian with English titles. Conducted by Alex Katsman from the piano. With Shawnette Sulker as Zelmira, Brian Yeakley as Prince Ilo, Paul Thompson as Polidoro. Nikola Printz as Emma, Jordan Eldredge as Leucippo, Michael Belle as Antenore.

The Plot: In ancient Lesbos, King Polidoro’s throne has been usurped. The villainous general Antenore assumes power and tries to frame Princess Zelmira for her father Polidoro’s murder. Her husband Ilo returns from foreign wars to the rescue, but Antenore hoodwinks Ilo into believing Zelmira both murderess and unfaithful wife. Zelmira’s unswerving fortitude and love eventually win the day.

The Opera: The sparkling genius of Rossini's comedies (such as The Barber of Seville) has relegated his serious works to the shadows for almost two centuries. We are proud to illuminate the treasures of his mature drama Zelmira. It does feature a convoluted classical plot (set on the island of Lesbos) in the bel canto tradition, but the situations are emotionally powerful. Cold-blooded regicide, unctuous demagoguery, misbelieved infidelity, unyielding villainy and female heroism in rapid combination, inspired Rossini to create a score rich with poignant melody and brilliant vocalism.

West Edge Opera is a cutting-edge opera company dedicated to bringing the excitement and relevance of opera to everyone, regardless of age, circumstance, or background. “We look at the art form through a new lens,” the company’s website says, “re-imagining tradition to connect with a modern audience.” San Francisco Classical Voice describes the company as “always trying to push the envelope.” Now in its 36th season, West Edge Opera was founded – as Berkeley Opera – in 1979 by baritone Richard Goodman, who also happened to be an engineering professor at Cal, and now serves as Artistic Director Emeritus. Mark Streshinsky is the Artistic Director, and Jonathan Khuner is the Musical Director.  The company creates innovative experiences of the highest quality that respect the original spirit of the work. It’s a magical blend of tradition and creativity, for music lovers of all stripes.

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