The Otello Project: Celebrating the 10th Anniversary of Pacific Symphony’s Opera Initiative
In three entertaining and enlightening Zoom webinars, Pacific Symphony Assistant Conductor, Dr. Jacob Sustaita, previews and introduces the upcoming performances of Verdi’s operatic masterpiece, Otello. Each online session will explore the opera’s depiction of jealousy and rage by examining the work’s psychological, musical and dramatic forces.
Don’t miss this opportunity to peek behind the scenes at how Pacific Symphony brings the dramatic pathos of this opera to the stage of the Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall.
Shakespeare Reinterpreted: Verdi’s Otello • March 23 at 5 p.m.
Soprano Kelebogile Besong and Stage Director Bob Neu join Session #1 to discuss the innocence and determination of Desdemona, with a focus on her Act IV farewell and prayer before her death.
Iago’s CREDO: Naivety and the Complexity of an Evil-Genius • March 30 at 5 p.m.
Baritone Stephen Powell and Stage Director Bob Neu discuss Iago’s theatrical polarity, declamatory musical style, and dramatic characterization.
Otello’s Collapse: A Handkerchief, A Victim and A Murder • April 6 at 5 p.m.
Tenor Carl Tanner shares his experiences of preparing and performing this enormous role. Tanner and Sustaita explore Otello’s challenges and complexities.
**Subject to change.**
HOW TO WATCH: Ticket holders will receive an email with a Zoom link 24 hours before each session. A recording of each session will be made available several days later for renewed viewing for up to one month.
COST: This three-session, online course costs $35 per household.
HOW TO PURCHASE: Please call the box office at (714) 755-5799 or purchase online using the hyperlinks above.
What’s your favorite part of Verdi’s Otello? Let us know in the comments below!