LA Opera conductor James Conlon says of Verdi’s Don Carlo “there’s nothing like it even in Verdi’s other operas.” That’s a good thing since according to Conlon opening night marked his 50th performance of the work he had conducted. LA Opera’s production, which features Plácido Domingo in the role of Rodrigo, continues at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion through October 14th.
In Don Carlo, the title character loses his fiancée to his father. Furious at these events, he switches allegiances during the Spanish Inquisition – an act that could gain freedom for the people, but cost Don Carlo his life.
Ramón Vargas plays Don Carlo. Ana María Martinez plays his fiancée, Elisabeth de Valois and Alexander Vinogradov plays his father for these remaining performances. Domingo’s role is that of Don Carlo’s best friend who tries to help his friend overcome situation at hand.
Ian Judge directed the production and James Conlon, of course, conducts.
On October 11 there will be a post-performance signing event with Domingo and Conlon.
Production Photo by Cory Weaver/LA Opera