One of Leonard Bernstein’s most famous works—the classic comedy operetta Candide—will be presented for the first time by the Atlanta Opera, featuring an acclaimed cast of rising stars and veterans of the Metropolitan Opera.
Conducted by Grammy-nominated James Lowe with stage direction by Alison Moritz, Candide will run March 4, 7, 10 and 12 at Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre.
With a score that includes classics such as “Glitter and Be Gay” and “Make Our Garden Grow” the opera follows the innocent Candide, raised to believe he lives in the “best of all possible worlds” as he navigates a series of unfortunate events and begins to question his life’s philosophy.
Tenor Jack Swanson will perform in the title role, while Soprano Deanna Breiwick will sing the role of Cunegonde. Both in-demand performers are making their The Atlanta Opera debuts.
Additionally, Atlanta favorite, bass Kevin Burdette, will play Voltaire/Dr. Pangloss, while tenor Victor Ryan Robertson returns to The Atlanta Opera in the roles of Governor, Vanderdenur, Baron and Ragotski.
“I am looking forward to sharing the first ever Atlanta Opera production of Candide,” said Tomer Zvulun, general and artistic director of Atlanta Opera. “I am particularly excited about the hilarious cast that we have assembled for this show. I am sure that their interpretation under the guidance of this brilliant creative team will bring much needed humor and joy to this performance.”
For more information or to purchase tickets, visit atlantaopera.org.
Photo: A scene from the 2015 Glimmerglass Festival production of Candide, which will supply the costumes for the Atlanta production. Photo by Karli Cadel
