SHOWS

10th Annual Summer Opera: Djamileh

Written by Georges Bizet

Presented by Chicago Dept. of Cultural Affairs

August 03, 2008 — August 07, 2008
Chicago Cultural Center
SOLD OUT

Music Director: Francesco Milioto
Stage Director: Patrizia Acerra

The Midwest premiere of a one-act oriental fairy tale from the composer of Carmen!

A little-known gem, this delightful opera follows the devoted, beautiful Djamileh in her quest to win over the blasé young nobleman Haroun.The sparkling mosaics of Preston Bradley Hall serve as the backdrop to this tale of love in an Egyptian palace, and a pre-show performance of music for ‘ud and percussion explores the sounds of the Turkish nobleman’s court, setting the scene for an evocative evening. The opera will be performed in English with members of the New Millennium Orchestra of Chicago under the direction of Maestro Francesco Milioto.

SYNOPSIS
Haroun, a spoiled young nobleman changes his mistress with every new moon, sending his servant Splendiano off to the Cairo slave market to buy them. The beautiful Djamileh has the misfortune to fall in love with Haroun and begs Splendiano to help her. He smuggles her in among the new girls so she can try once more to win Haroun’s heart. If she should fail, she agrees to give herself to Splendiano. Her dancing entrances Haroun who buys her. When her identity is revealed, her loyalty and love wins Haroun’s heart.

PERFORMANCES
Sunday, August 3 at 3:30 pm
Tuesday, August 5 at 7:30 pm
Thursday, August 7 at 7:30 pm

TICKETS
Advance tickets are available for Chicago Cultural Center Mosaic members (with membership card) starting July 2, and to the general public July 9.
Tickets must be obtained in person, at the Storefront Theater Box Office, 66 E Randolph St.
Limit four per person.
12pm – 6pm, Tuesday - Saturday
12pm – 4pm, Sunday

A limited number of tickets will be available on the door on a first come, first served basis.