Letter From the
Executive Director / Conductor
Dear Friends,
Welcome to our fabulous 2009-2010 Season featuring three of the most beloved works in the opera and operetta repertoire.
Our February production, Lucia di Lammermoor, is the bel canto masterpiece by Donizetti based on The Bride of Lammermoor by the distinguished Scottish author Sir Walter Scott. This spectacular vocal work has been thrilling audiences since 1835, especially due to its famous “Mad Scene” sung by the title character. The opera holds a very special place in my heart as it was my privilege to play the rehearsals for a production of Lucia for the legendary Dame Joan Sutherland in 1974. I am dedicating our performances to Dame Joan in appreciation of her unique artistry, friendship and the inspiration she has been in my life.
For our finale, after a ten-year absence, Gilbert and Sullivan’s The Pirates of Penzance will again walk the planks at the Tennessee Theatre. Knoxville native and celebrity actor David Keith stars as The Pirate King. Rossini will then return to the Knoxville Opera festival that bears his name! Figaro, “the” Barber of Seville, will be shaving beards and cutting hair here in April 2010 as he has been since the premiere in Rome in 1816. While the opera is best known for Figaro’s signature phrase, it is brimming over with an endless buffet of well-known, exciting arias and ensembles. It will keep you smiling and humming from the brilliant overture straight through the effervescent finale!
Taking the reality of the recession into consideration, Knoxville Opera’s ticket prices will remain the same for the third consecutive year. I hope you will remember Knoxville Opera when making your contribution plans in 2009-2010 and help us to continue providing outstanding performances and significant education-outreach programs for our community.
I look forward to greeting you personally during the upcoming season of favorites and thank you for your support!
Brian Salesky
Executive Director and Conductor
