Based on the play Andromaque (1667) by Jean Racine
On many levels, being able to present Rossini’s Ermione, set against the backdrop of the Trojan War, is something of a miracle as it disappeared from the public eye after only seven performances in 1819, not to be unearthed again until over 100 years after Rossini’s death. Despite its relatively short performance history and initial reputation as a failure, the opera is positively overflowing with vocal pyrotechnics, and the historical record is clear on the fact that the composer himself continued to hold a great deal of affection for it well into his later life. As a recovered gem, Ermione continues to shine brightly, and Washington Concert Opera is honored to play an important role in its continued, modern reevaluation.
Featuring star soprano Angela Meade, who has sung the title role to great acclaim in Italy and Spain, as well as a WCO favorite, the internationally acclaimed Rossini tenor, Lawrence Brownlee, in an exciting role debut. They will be joined by outstanding Rossini interpreters, tenor David Portillo and mezzo-soprano Ginger Costa-Jackson, for an evening of spectacular and virtuosic singing.
