Opera Baltimore: Donizetti's 'Maria Stuarda'
$32.95-$81.35
- Chelsea Lehnea, soprano (Elisabetta, Regina d'Inghilterra)
- Sarah Coit, mezzo-soprano (Maria Stuarda, Regina di Scozia)
- Peter Scott Drackley, tenor (Roberto, Conte di Leicester)
- Eric McKeever, baritone (Giorgio Talbot)
- Husan Chun-Novak, piano
Maria Stuarda tells the dramatic story of the intense rivalry between Mary, Queen of Scots, and Queen Elizabeth I of England. Set against a backdrop of political intrigue and personal animosity, the opera explores themes of power, jealousy, and tragedy.
Mary Stuart has been imprisoned by her cousin, Elizabeth, who views her as a threat to the English throne. As Mary languishes in captivity, various characters, including the compassionate Talbot and the ambitious Cecil, debate her fate. Elizabeth's favorite, Leicester, also has deep feelings for Mary, complicating the already tense situation.
In a powerful and emotional confrontation, Mary and Elizabeth face each other, revealing the depth of their mutual hatred and the complexity of their characters. The encounter ultimately seals Mary's tragic fate, as Elizabeth is persuaded to sign her death warrant.
Donizetti's masterful score and Bardari's compelling libretto bring to life this historical clash, showcasing the emotional turmoil and high stakes of two iconic queens locked in a battle for power and survival.
Opera Aperitif Night: A Special VIP Experience for First-Time Attendees—As a special thank you for joining us this season, Opera Baltimore invites first-time attendees to enjoy an exclusive VIP experience before Maria Stuarda (Feb. 26) or Albert Herring (Apr. 30). This evening includes a guided tour of the Garrett-Jacobs Mansion—an iconic Gilded Age landmark in Baltimore—where you'll explore its breathtaking architecture and historic significance. Following the tour, relax with a complimentary glass of wine before settling in for the performance. More information: https://www.operabaltimore.org/events-tickets/opera-aperitif-night-a-special-vip-experience-for-first-time-attendees
About Chelsea Lehnea, soprano (Elisabetta, Regina d'Inghilterra)
American soprano Chelsea Lehnea is known for her powerful artistry, fearless personality, and unique sense of style. Lehnea has secured top honors around the globe, claiming First Place at the Loren L. Zachary Vocal Competition, Premiere Opera Foundation Live Vocal Competition, Opera at Florham Vocal Competition, and the Camille Coloratura Awards Vocal Competition. Her achievements include a Sullivan Foundation Award and achieving finalist status at the XVII Concurso Internacional Montserrat Caballè.
Lehnea's ascent in the opera world began with her participation in the Santa Fe Opera's Apprentice Singer Program in 2016, which paved the way for her Washington National Opera debut as Sister Catherine in Dead Man Walking. In the subsequent season, she was a Studio Artist at Sarasota Opera where she performed Frasquita in Carmen and covered Adalgisa in Norma. Noteworthy milestones include her Masterclass performance of the mad scene of Lucia di Lammermoor under the auspices of the Metropolitan Opera Guild, her performances with St. Pete Opera as Donna Anna in Don Giovanni, being the soprano soloist for Der Messias with the Virginia Consort Choir and Orchestra, and debuting as Euridice in Orfeo ed Euridice with Bel Cantanti Opera. Her association with the Merola Opera Program in 2019 added another dimension to her journey. Here she took part in the world premiere of Jake Heggie's If I Were You as Woman at the Bar, while also presenting scenes as the title role in Lucia di Lammermoor and as Elisabetta in Maria Stuarda.
Originally from Chattanooga, Tennessee, she imparts her passion and expertise by teaching voice and piano lessons online.Beyond the stage, she finds solace in nature, experiments with vegan culinary arts, and finds joy in the cuddles of her cat, Shiley.
https://chelsealehnea.com/