Classical Series
Verdi ’ s Rigoletto Conducted by Heyward
FRI , JUN 12 , 7 PM MEYERHOFF
VERDI Rigoletto SUN , JUN 14 , 3 PM STRATHMORE ( Complete in Italian with English supertitles ) Jonathon Heyward , conductor Quinn Kelsey , Rigoletto Raven McMillon , Gilda Andrew Owens , Duke of Mantua Peixin Chen , Sparafucile J ’ Nai Bridges , Maddalena Christian Pursell , Count Monterone The Washington Chorus
Dr . Eugene Rogers , artistic director Alison Moritz , director
Experience the thrilling conclusion of the 2025-26 season with a concert performance of Verdi ’ s Rigoletto , featuring artists famous for bringing their roles to life on international stages . This is the second production of Music Director Jonathon Heyward ’ s ambitious four-year Verdi Opera Initiative .
CLASSICAL COLLECTION
Giuseppe Verdi ’ s Rigoletto is a tragic opera that tells the story of a court jester , Rigoletto , whose efforts to protect his innocent daughter , Gilda , from the predatory Duke of Mantua lead to heartbreak and unintended consequences . Deception and vengeance intertwine as Rigoletto ’ s scheme to punish the Duke backfires , resulting in Gilda ’ s tragic death .
Image : Set design for act “ IV ” ( III as normally counted ) of Giuseppe Verdi ’ s Rigoletto . Philippe Chaperon ( 1823-1906 ); Restored by Adam Cuerden
2025-26 SEASON | 17