Music and Libretto: Ruggiero Leoncavallo
Premiere: May 21, 1892
Danger brews in the heart of a small traveling carnival. The jealous star clown, Canio, suspects that his sexy clown wife Nedda is playing him for a fool. During an evening performance of their usual clown comedy show, theater and reality blend into one, as the enraged Canio exacts his terrible revenge. Based on a true story, Leoncavallo’s opera paints a vivid portrait of unbridled passion, betrayal, and revenge; revealing that sometimes, behind a clown’s painted, cheery smile, the darkness hides and waits.
Directed by John Hoomes
Conducted by Dean Williamson
Featuring the Nashville Opera Orchestra
Sung in Italian with projected English lyrics
| Accessibility Tip Sheet | Study Guide |
Artists
Jonathan Burton
Canio
Keri Alkema*
Nedda
Andrew Manea
Tonio
Joseph Lim
Silvio
Anthony Ciaramitaro*
Beppe
John Hoomes
Director
Dean Williamson
Conductor
*Nashville Opera mainstage debut
