Mozart's The Marriage of Figaro Asked Dangerous Questions in 1786–Still Does Today

OAK PARK, IL — Bellissima Opera presents a groundbreaking new production of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart's The Marriage of Figaro on July 30 and 31, 2026, at the Nineteenth Century Charitable Association in Oak Park. Today, The Marriage of Figaro remains one of opera's most beloved comedies. Yet when Mozart and librettist Lorenzo Da Ponte adapted Pierre Beaumarchais's explosive play in 1786, they faced a serious challenge: convincing Emperor Joseph II to approve a work that questioned inherited privilege, social hierarchy, and rights of the ruling class. Bellissima Opera's new concept places these four historical figures alongside the action. Through dialogue, letters, and commentary woven between scenes, audiences witness the fascinating struggle between artistic expression, censorship, political power, and public opinion that nearly prevented the opera from reaching the stage, while all of Mozart's glorious music is performed by a professional cast. Hailed by Opera News as a singer with a “seemingly unlimited baritone,” José Luis Maldonado stars in the title role of Figaro. Maldonado brings vocal beauty, seamless technique, and magnetic stage presence to one of opera's most beloved and revolutionary heroes. Set during a single “mad day,” The Marriage of Figaro follows the servants Figaro and Susanna as they outwit their employer, Count Almaviva, expose hypocrisy, and ultimately demonstrate that intelligence, integrity, and love can triumph over status and power. Directed by Carl Ratner and adapted by Christine Steyer, this production preserves everything audiences love about Figaro, the comedy, romance, and magnificent music. Founder and co-artistic director of Bellissima Opera Christine Steyer says, "At the same time, it allows audiences to discover the enduring questions it raises about privilege, power, and who gets to shape society." EVENT INFORMATION Free Lecture: A Sneak Peek at Our New Adaptation Monday, July 20, 2026, at 1:30 p.m. Performances Thursday, July 30, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. Friday, July 31, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. Tickets $10–$60 BellissimaOpera.com/Figaro Performance Information ·Opera runs approximately three hours, including intermission. ·Performed in Italian with English supertitles. ·Recommended for ages 12 and older. Patron Information ·Mobility accessible venue ·Low-cost parking structure adjacent to the venue ·Tickets are expected to sell quickly; advance purchase is recommended CAST AND CREATIVE TEAM The production stars José Luis Maldonado as Figaro, alongside Marissa Howard as Susanna, Caden Cole as Count Almaviva, Christine Steyer as the Countess, Maria Molter as Cherubino, Dominique Frigo as Marcellina, Brad Schuller as Don Basilio, Karissa Burkhardt as Barbarina, Carl Ratner as Antonio, Alex Honzen as Don Bartolo, and Peter Lorenzo as Don Curzio. The production's historical framework is brought to life by actors Peter Stigdon as Mozart, Brandon Burkhardt as Lorenzo Da Ponte, John B. Boss as Pierre Beaumarchais, and Thomas M. Shea as Emperor Joseph II. They are joined by a youth and adult ensemble. The creative team includes Nathan Eck, pianist; Carl Ratner, director; Christine Steyer, concept creator; Nick Sandys, consultant; and Dana Brown, music consultant. Bellissima Opera's youth and adult ensemble: Yzabella Anderson, Max Bozman, Noemi Flores, Phil Frigo, Aaron Grace, Lorena Izquierdo, Gwenna Kelley, Gabriela Lufrano, Lucas Madrigal, Noah Madrigal, Martin O'Connor, Michael O'Connor, and Christina Ray. About Bellissima Opera Founded in 2010, Bellissima Opera & Song, an initiative of Working In Concert, uses the art of opera to empower lives and build community. Through innovative productions and collaborations with emerging and established artists, Bellissima Opera makes the art form accessible, engaging, and relevant to today's audiences.

Event Links

Tickets: https://go.evvnt.com/3697804-0

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