Once the most performed opera of its time, the Bel Canto drama La favorite features some of the most challenging arias ever written. Now, the Donizetti piece is coming to the Wortham Theater Center on Friday, January 24th, to be performed by members of the Houston Grand Opera!
Woven into this now-rarely performed opera is a classic love triangle among a noblewoman, king, and warrior. Set in early 14th century Spain, this triangle involves the King of Castile Alphonse XI, the beautiful Léonor and a novice monk, Fernand. In the background, the Moors have invaded Spain, and a power struggle has begun between church and state.
Opera powerhouse and Houston Grand Opera Studio alumna Jamie Barton and international star Lawrence Brownlee return to Houston for this HGO premiere. Internationally-known mezzo-soprano Jamie Barton returns to Houston Grand Opera in the role of Léonor de Guzman, which she debuted at Teatro Real Madrid. South African-born baritone Jacques Imbrailo assumes the role of Alphonse XI, while Argentinian bass-baritone Federico De Michelis will sing Balthazar. World-renowned opera, film, theater and event director Kevin Newbury directs La favorite.
Houston Grand Opera is one of the largest, most innovative, and most highly acclaimed opera companies in the United States. HGO was the only American finalist for the Opera Company of the Year at the 2017 International Opera Awards. In fulfilling its mission to advance the operatic art to serve an ever-evolving audience, HGO leads the field in commissioning new works (65 world premieres to date) and in training and nurturing promising young artists and administrators.
Don’t miss your chance to see a rarely performed work at Wortham Theater Center on January 24th!
La favorite runs two hours and 50 minutes with one intermission and will be sung in French with English projections. Tickets start at $25.00. For more information and to buy tickets, visit www.houstongrandopera.org or call the box office at 713-228-6737.
This event promises to be a fun time! Join your family, friends, and neighbors of The Enclave at Woodbridge Apartments in Sugar Land, Texas and see what all the buzz is about!
Event Time/Date:
Friday, January 24, 2020—7:30 PM
Event Venue Location:
Wortham Theater Center
501 Texas Avenue
Houston, Texas 77002