Single tickets now on sale to 'Drama & Dance in the D'

Posted: Sept. 5, 2012 at 7:28 a.m.

DETROIT - Individual tickets are now on sale to "Drama in the D," Michigan Opera Theatre's 42nd season. Highlighting the company's role as a cultural leader in the city, as well as its commitment to making the arts accessible to local audiences, the opera and dance seasons include two company premieres, MOT's first baroque opera, and the Detroit Opera House debut of a heralded dance troupe.

The drama begins with Rossini's comic masterpiece, "The Barber of Seville." Desperate to be loved for who he is, not what he has, the conniving Count Almaviva is forced to devise disguises and tricks to woo the beautiful Rosina, enlisting the help of a local barber named Figaro. Conducted by Suzanne Mallare Acton and staged by Detroit favorite Mario Corradi, the production features the company debuts of Rodion Pogossov, Eugene Chan, Elizabeth DeShong and Deborah Domanski. (Oct. 13-21)

The 17th season of "Dance in the D" opens with the Detroit Opera House debut of New York City Ballet Moves. One of the world's foremost dance companies, NYCB Moves includes dynamic works from the company's vast repertoire, including choreography by Christopher Wheeldon, George Balanchine, William Forsythe and Peter Martins. (Oct. 27-28)

The company premiere of Handel's "Julius Caesar" is the first baroque opera ever to be presented by Michigan Opera Theatre. Two of history's most compelling figures take center stage, as Caesar and Cleopatra find that war between their countries is nothing compared to the battles raging in their hearts. The production features spectacular sets and costumes, with Handel's magnum opus reimagined as a glamorous Hollywood classic. Featuring the company debuts of world-renowned countertenors David Daniels, Anthony Roth Costanzo and David Trudgens, the production also features Lisette Oropesa and Andriana Chuchman as Cleopatra. Conducted by Howard Arman and directed by Michael Shell. (Nov. 10-18)

Detroit's holiday tradition is back when BalletMet Columbus' "The Nutcracker" returns for four dazzling performances. The magical holiday classic is performed by one of the nation's largest dance companies. Special family matinees include live reindeer, family-friendly buffet lunches before the performance, photos with Santa and the Nutcracker, and the chance to meet the dancers on stage after the performance. (Nov. 25-27)

The Detroit Opera House once again partners with Rackham Symphony Choir for the holiday favorite "Too Hot To Handel." The 11th year of performances in Detroit of the jazz-gospel reworking of Handel's "Messiah" includes soloists Alfreda Burke, Rodrick Dixon and Karen Marie Richardson, conducted by Suzanne Mallare Acton. (Dec. 1)

Eisenhower Dance Ensemble partners once again with the Detroit Opera House when the esteemed metro Detroit-based company presents "Red, Hot & Blue." This dance journey of love, passion and joy features an eclectic program of stunning technique and innovative choreography. (Jan. 19, 2013)

"Dance in the D" continues with the triumphant return of an iconic ensemble. Founded in 1969, Dance Theatre of Harlem brings bold new forms of artistic expression to audiences around the world. After a wildly successful rebirth in 2012, the renowned company returns to the Detroit Opera House for the first time in nine years. (Feb. 1-3)

Perennial audience favorite Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater returns with its electrifying energy and soulful spirit. Building on the success of artistic director Robert Battle's inaugural season, the acclaimed institution will perform a can't-miss program of the company's classics while exploring new works by contemporary choreographers. (March 21-24)

The spring opera season opens with the company premiere of Beethoven's only opera, "Fidelio." In the stirring story of heroism and love, Fidelio is actually the noblewoman Lenore disguised as a prison guard. She searches for her husband Florestan, who is jailed as a political prisoner, as themes of courage, justice and freedom continue to make the work socially relevant in modern times. Conducted by Christian Badea and directed by John Pascoe, the production features the company debuts of Erik Nelson Werner and Christine Goerke. (April 13-21)

The season's final drama comes with the long-awaited return of Verdi favorite "Aida." Set in ancient Egypt against the backdrop of two warring nations, the epic opera finds Ethiopian princess Aida torn between the love of her country and her love for handsome Egyptian commander Radames. The enduring favorite of opera lovers is conducted by Steven Mercurio and directed by Bliss Herbert, and features the company debut of rising star Latonia Moore as Aida. (May 11-19)

Tickets to opera and dance productions start at just $15 for certain performances. For the second year, patrons can select their exact seats online at www.MichiganOpera.org. Series subscriptions offering substantial savings are still available. Tickets for all events are also available by calling 313-237-SING, or in person at the Detroit Opera House ticket office (1526 Broadway, Detroit).