Figaro, Figaro, FI-GA-RO! Everyone knows a tune from The Barber Of Seville. Even if they’re not familiar with the famous aria, chances are they’ve heard the overture (if nowhere else, then in the classic Bugs Bunny cartoon, The Rabbit Of Seville). Rossini is known for his infectious melodies and flights of florid coloratura, as well as his deliciously comic plots. Barber is the story of Figaro, opera’s favorite charming rascal, the general go-to guy for various shady needs. The lovelorn Count Almaviva needs to reach the object of his affections — the beautiful and spirited Rosina, who is jealously guarded by her ward, Dr. Bartolo. The latter hopes to marry her himself and gain not only a lovely young wife, but her fortune. Melodious hijinks ensue as the protagonist uses his wits to help the young lovers through a series of hilarious misadventures until they finally end up in each other’s arms; Apr. 29-May 20. FGO.org.
