The fat man sings in CCM ‘s spring opera production of Verdi’s Falstaff. Based on Shakespeare’s The Merry Wives of Windsor and Henry IV, Falstaff is a fast-paced comedy featuring the Bard’s favorite big guy who lusts after money, food and women (in that order). He goes after two married women to get at their fortunes but he’s no match for clever women, loony lovers and genuine dirty laundry. Verdi’s last work—written when he was in his 80s—is a rollicking score famous for its witty ensemble pieces.
Robin Guarino makes her eagerly awaited CCM Mainstage directorial debut. Recently appointed the J. Ralph Corbett Distinguished Chair in Opera, Guarino’s directing credits include stints at the Metropolitan Opera, San Francisco Opera and the Brooklyn Academy of Music’s Next Wave Festival. ”It is such a privilege to have this work be my first Mainstage experience at CCM,” says Guarino, who joined the faculty in September 2008. “I can’t wait to share this delicious comedy with our audiences.” Guarino promises a traditional production and plenty of laughter throughout. There’s not a corpse in sight and the opera ends with everyone singing “He who laughs last laughs best.” May 14-17. $15-17 students; $26–28 general public. Get show times and tickets here.