What's happened
The Washington National Opera announced its 70th season will resume at Lisner Auditorium on March 7, featuring a new version of Joplin’s 'Treemonisha' and performances of 'The Crucible.' The season also includes upcoming productions of 'West Side Story' and a gala hosted by Stephen Schwartz, amid recent funding boosts and controversy over venue choices.
What's behind the headline?
The return to Lisner Auditorium signifies a strategic move to reconnect with its community roots and stabilize its financial and artistic footing. The season's programming, including a world premiere and classic operas, aims to attract diverse audiences. The controversy over venue renaming and political clashes highlights ongoing tensions between arts organizations and political entities. The influx of donations suggests strong community support, which will be crucial for the opera’s sustainability. The upcoming productions, especially the 'West Side Story' adaptation, indicate a blending of opera and musical theatre, broadening appeal. Overall, this season will likely reinforce the opera’s cultural relevance while navigating political sensitivities and funding challenges.
What the papers say
The New York Times reports that the opera's return to Lisner Auditorium is both a homecoming and a renewal, supported by over 500 donors after recent political clashes. The Independent highlights the artistic leadership of Jakub Hrůša and Giacomo Scappucci, emphasizing their innovative programming and breaking through in classical music. AP News notes the strategic programming choices, including Czech operas and bel canto, and the importance of balancing financial stability with artistic innovation. These sources collectively portray a resilient organization leveraging community support and artistic excellence to navigate political and financial hurdles.
How we got here
The Washington National Opera faced challenges with its venue and political clashes, prompting a search for a new home. It announced a return to Lisner Auditorium, a familiar venue, with support from donors. The season includes classic and contemporary works, reflecting a strategic shift amidst ongoing debates about its future and funding.
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