Courtesy of Lyric Opera of Chicago
March 15 – April 12, 2025, at Lyric Opera of Chicago
A Classic Story of Love, Friendship, and Tragedy
Chicago is about to witness the return of Puccini’s La Bohème at the Lyric Opera of Chicago, with a fresh, vibrant production that’s sure to captivate audiences from March 15 to April 12, 2025. The opera, an iconic piece of the classical music world, tells a timeless story of young love, artistic passion, and the painful brevity of life’s most precious moments. With its heart-stirring music and unforgettable characters, La Bohème continues to hold a special place in opera lovers’ hearts.
Featuring an exceptional cast, including Samoan tenor Pene Pati in his Lyric debut, alongside returning favorites like Ailyn Pérez, Gabriella Reyes, and Will Liverman, this performance promises to evoke both the joy and the sorrow of 19th-century Parisian bohemia. Conducted by Jordan de Souza and directed by Melanie Bacaling, this production breathes new life into a masterpiece that speaks to audiences of all generations.
A Story Rooted in the Struggles and Triumphs of Young Artists
Set against the backdrop of Paris’s bohemian quarter, La Bohème tells the tale of a group of young, struggling artists — poets, painters, and musicians — caught up in the whirlwind of love, friendship, and hardship. At its heart is the fragile yet beautiful love story between Rodolfo, a poet, and Mimì, a seamstress battling illness. As their love blooms, the harsh realities of poverty and disease cast a shadow over their joy, leading to a heartbreaking conclusion.
The opera’s poignant score, which brings the emotional depth of the story to life, is filled with soaring arias and lush ensembles that elevate both the intimate moments between Mimì and Rodolfo and the lively, bustling energy of the Café Momus. La Bohème is an opera that takes audiences on an emotional journey, leaving them in awe of its beauty, loss, and the enduring power of love.
An All-Star Cast with Powerful Talent
The Lyric production features some of opera’s most celebrated artists. Pene Pati makes his Lyric debut as Rodolfo. A rising star in the opera world, Pati has been praised as “the most exceptional tenor discovery of the last decade” and has performed on stages from San Francisco to Paris. He won the 2022 Reader’s Choice Award at the International Opera Awards and has already made a notable debut at the Metropolitan Opera.
Soprano Ailyn Pérez, a Chicagoland native, returns to the Lyric stage to perform her signature role as Mimì. Known for her breathtaking artistry, Pérez has brought the role of Mimì to life in opera houses around the world, including London’s Royal Opera House and the Metropolitan Opera. Her portrayal of Mimì is hailed as one of the most memorable in the operatic world.
Soprano Gabriella Reyes also returns to the Lyric stage, this time in the role of Musetta. Reyes has earned rave reviews for her performances across the globe, including recent performances as Mimì with the Atlanta Opera and Musetta at the Met. Her dynamic voice and artistry add an extra layer of brilliance to this classic opera.
Chicago-native baritone Will Liverman stars as Marcello, bringing his trademark versatility and power to the role. Liverman, an alumnus of Lyric’s Patrick G. and Shirley W. Ryan Opera Center, has gained national recognition for his groundbreaking performances, including his role in the opera The Factotum and his work in Fire Shut Up in My Bones.
The cast also includes renowned bass Peixin Chen as Colline and two members of the Ryan Opera Center Ensemble, baritone Ian Rucker as Schaunard and tenor Travon D. Walker as Parpignol. Both are rising stars in the opera world, with Walker recently receiving the 2024 Best Vocal Artist Award from the American Opera Society.
A Visionary Creative Team
The production is conducted by Jordan de Souza, an accomplished Puccini specialist and the newly appointed General Music Director of Theater Dortmund. De Souza’s work on La Bohème has already garnered acclaim at the Canadian Opera Company. His vision for this production promises to breathe new life into Puccini’s masterpiece.
Melanie Bacaling, an accomplished director and stage artist, returns to Chicago to helm this production. Bacaling has worked on numerous prestigious opera productions, including those at the Metropolitan Opera, Santa Fe Opera, and Detroit Opera. She brings a unique perspective to La Bohème, working to make the story resonate with a new generation of theatergoers.
The set design, created by Gerard Howland, and the costume design by Jeannique Prospere (reimagining Peter J. Hall’s original designs) provide a stunning visual experience, while lighting designer Duane Schuler’s work will add emotional depth to every scene.
A Cultural Experience for All
In addition to the live performances of La Bohème, Lyric Opera will present an exhibition, La Bohème: An “American” Opera, featuring works by Ryan Opera Center alumnus Luther Lewis. Inspired by 1990s Harlem and Chicago’s Pilsen neighborhood, this exhibit offers a fresh, culturally relevant take on Puccini’s opera, reimagining its themes of love, art, and struggle through a modern lens. The exhibition will be open to the public from March 18 to April 10.
For those attending the performances, Lyric offers pre-opera talks by opera scholar Dr. Harris Saunders, as well as accessibility services such as audio descriptions, touch tours, and SoundShirts for the hearing impaired.
La Bohème: A Timeless Masterpiece
With its emotional depth, timeless score, and rich cultural context, La Bohème continues to captivate audiences across the globe. Lyric Opera of Chicago’s new production is a powerful reminder of the opera’s enduring legacy, offering a fresh perspective while honoring the piece’s classic beauty. From the passionate music to the unforgettable characters, this is an event not to be missed.
Performance Dates: March 15, 19 (matinee), 22, 25, 28, 31; April 3 (matinee), 6 (matinee), 9, 12 (matinee)
For tickets and more information, visit Lyric Opera of Chicago or call 312.827.5600.
