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Love, Murder and Betrayal in High Society!

Even a king should not dare to love his best friend’s wife. Ignoring warnings that his life could be in danger, Gustavus, King of Sweden, foolishly goes to a masked ball that becomes a sinister dance with death. This powerful story of forbidden love and revenge will keep audiences enthralled. Ballo is opera at its grandest, with soaring arias, gorgeous ensembles, fabulous costumes and lavish sets. In this masterpiece, Verdi created a rich musical tapestry of light and darkness, comedy and tragedy.

The all-star cast includes tenors Salvatore Licitra and Frank Porretta, who share the role of King Gustavus III. Sopranos Tamara Wilson and Susan Neves portray the innocent wife Amelia with Luca Salsi and Timothy Mix sharing the role of Count Anckarström, her betrayed husband and Gustavus’ trusted friend. Mezzo-soprano Elena Manistina sings the pivotal role of the fortune teller Mam’zelle Arvidson. Conductor Daniel Callegari and director James Robinson make their WNO debuts in this stunning production from Opera Colorado.

The running time for this production is approximately two hours and 49 minutes including two 20-minute intermissions. Sung in Italian with English supertitles.

WHEN: Saturday, September 11, 2010, 7:00 PM
Tuesday, September 14, 2010, 7:30 PM
Thursday, September 16, 2010, 7:30 PM
Friday, September 17, 2010, 7:30 PM
Sunday, September 19, 2010, 2:00 PM
Monday, September 20, 2010, 7:00 PM
Wednesday, September 22, 2010, 7:30 PM
Saturday, September 25, 2010, 7:00 PM

TICKETS: Tickets range from $55 to $300 and are available online at www.dc-opera.org, or by contacting Audience Services at 202.295.2400 or 800.US.OPERA, Mon.-Fri. from 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM