Schicchi/Pagliacci
The Los Angeles Opera performs. laopera.org
From the Los Angeles Opera website: https://www.laopera.org/season/1516-Season-at-a-Glance/Gianni-Schicchi-Pagliacci/
Two legendary directors combine forces for a sensational season-opener. First, Plácido Domingo stars as Gianni Schicchi in Woody Allen’s riotous staging of Puccini’s comic masterpiece, conducted by Grant Gershon. When greedy relatives descend upon their kinsman’s deathbed, they enlist Gianni Schicchi to rewrite the will to their benefit. Handed an opportunity too good to resist, the devious Schicchi turns the tables, securing the future happiness of two young lovers in the process.
After the intermission, Plácido Domingo conducts the conclusion of the double bill, Franco Zeffirelli’s epic production of Pagliacci starring Marco Berti, Ana María Martínez and George Gagnidze. Filling the stage with hair-raising drama, the action plays out in a breathtaking contemporary urban landscape. When a cuckolded husband takes his revenge, his desperate wife must fight for her life in front of a cheering, oblivious audience.
“One for the record books. Gianni Schicchi is a wonderful romp led by Domingo’s physical and vocal presence. Pagliacci is one of the most eye-dazzling theatrical stagings you will ever see.” - Los Angeles Daily News