Rigoletto Cast And Production Change As Nucci Withdraws
Opera Australia today announced that baritone Leo Nucci has regretfully withdrawn from his three scheduled performances as Rigoletto in the upcoming production of Verdi’s eponymous opera at Sydney Opera House during the 2018 winter season.
Acclaimed baritone Dalibor Jenis, who appeared for Opera Australia as Miller in the 2016 production of Verdi’s Luisa Miller and in the title role in Tchaikovsky’s Eugene Onegin in 2014, has agreed to extend his season in the title role of Rigoletto, which he was to have shared with Nucci.
The cast change has prompted the decision to revive Elijah Moshinsky’s much-loved, Fellini-esque production of Rigoletto with its sumptuous opening sets and costumes and the inimitable Fiat 500 which brings Gilda to her fate.
Opera Australia explains that casting discussions are often made years ahead of scheduled performances to fit in with artist availability. Whilst this brings some of the world’s best talents to our stage, it also means that some performers can find their circumstances have changed and are unable to fulfil their obligations.
Tickets to Nucci’s performances had a premium price loading and Opera Australia is offering ticket exchanges for this or other productions with a refund of the premium loading or of the whole of the ticket price. Ticket holders are requested to call the Box Office on (02) 9318 8200.
