The company’s first-ever Spanish-language opera is at once a delight for the eye and a curiosity, roundly entertaining if not squarely set in its dramatic frame.

It is a fiesta of romantic opulence, a tumult of feverish emotions and strained perceptions, this excursion through the magical realism of Daniel Catán’s “Florencia en el Amazonas” at Lyric Opera of Chicago. (Photos by Cory Weaver) Review: ‘Florencia en el Amazonas’ by Daniel Catán libretto by Marcela Fuentes-Berain. Past productions were “Oklahoma!” in the 2012-13 season and “The Sound of Music “in the 2013-14 season.Ana María Martínez as Florencia, amid butterflies at Lyric Opera. “The King and I” and “South Pacific” will follow in the 2015-17 seasons, respectively. He recently co-directed “Macbeth” at the Park Avenue Armory with Kenneth Branagh and directed NBC’s musicals “Peter Pan Live!” and “The Sound of Music Live!.”Ĭonductor David Chase will makes his Lyric debut with “Carousel,” which is the third Rodgers and Hammerstein musical to be presented as part of Lyric’s American Musical Theater Initiative. The production will be directed and choreographed by Tony, Emmy, and Olivier Award winner Rob Ashford, who made his Lyric debut during the 2013-14 season directing a new production of Rossini’s “The Barber of Seville.” Ashford is the choreographer for the 87th Academy Awards, airing on Feb. Previously announced cast members include Broadway stars Steven Pasquale, Laura Osnes, and Jenn Gambatese, who will portray Billy Bigelow, Julie Jordan and Carrie Pipperidge respectively, and opera star Denyce Graves as Nettie Fowler.

“Carousel” is set to run April 10-May 3 at the Civic Opera House, with opening night set for April 11. And two-time Tony Award nominee Tony Roberts will be featured as the Starkeeper. Two-time Tony Award nominee Charlotte d’Amboise (a terrific dancer who was so memorable in “Chicago”) will play Mrs. Tony Award winner Jarrod Emick will play Jigger Craigin.

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