The Opera Festival of Chicago’s 2023 season explored the dramatic themes of power, glory, and betrayal through a compelling lineup of performances that showcased both celebrated artists and rising talent. The season featured Ildebrando Pizzetti’s powerful Murder in the Cathedral, a striking portrayal of the martyrdom of Thomas Becket; an intimate concert evening, An Italian Soirée, highlighting beloved operatic selections and instrumental works; and Verdi’s epic early masterpiece Attila, a sweeping tale of conquest and defiance set in the final days of the Roman Empire. Together, these performances reflected the Festival’s commitment to presenting compelling Italian opera while bringing together distinguished performers, emerging artists, and Chicago audiences.
JUL
6-9
Festival Mainstage
July 6, 9, 2023
From the writing of T. S. Eliot's 1935 play, "Murder at the Cathedral" remains one of Ildebrando Pizzetti's most celebrated compositions. This dramatic opera portrays the assassination of Archbishop Thomas Becket in Canterbury Cathedral during the reign of Henry II in 1170.
JUL
20-23
Festival Mainstage
July 20, 23, 2023
Verdi’s popular 1846 opera in a prologue and three acts takes us to the mid-5th century near Rome following Attila, King of the Huns. A story of Power, Glory, and Betrayal, Attila was Verdi's 9th opera and has been one of his most popular earlier works with soaring melodies, giant choruses within this epic tale.
Festival Artist Concert
July 12, 2023
Our Festival artists will be showcased in an evening dedicated to an exciting selection of music inspired by our season theme of Power, Glory, and Betrayal.
