Soprano Asmik Grigorian makes her highly anticipated Met debut as Cio-Cio-San, the loyal geisha at the heart of Puccini’s devastating tragedy. Tenor Jonathan Tetelman stars as the callous American naval officer Pinkerton, whose betrayal destroys her. Mezzo-soprano Elizabeth DeShong reprises the role of the steadfast maid Suzuki, and baritone Lucas Meachem is the American consul Sharpless. Acclaimed maestro Xian Zhang takes the podium to conduct Anthony Minghella’s vivid production.

 

The timeless score includes a number of melodies familiar to opera lovers and newcomers alike, including the soaring soprano aria “Un bel dì” and the evocative Humming Chorus. Winning  film director Anthony Minghella returns, using traditional Bunraku puppetry and Japanese theatrical techniques to beautifully tell the story, which is set in the port city of Nagasaki at the turn of the 20th century.

 

This live cinema transmission is part of the Met’s award-winning Live in HD series, bringing opera to movie theaters across the globe. Prior to the 1 p.m. screening, Lincoln Theater will also host a pre-opera talk with Dr. Morton Achter at 11:45 a.m.

 

A retired college professor, Dr. Achter has taught about, produced, and directed opera and related stage genres for over sixty-five years. Educated at the Eastman School of Music and M.I.T., and holding a Ph.D. in music and theater history from the University of Michigan, locally he has directed productions for the Lincoln County Community Theater, River Company, Round Top Center for the Arts, and Bath’s Chocolate Church Arts Center. He has served on the Board of Directors of Midcoast Senior College in Brunswick, and has offered music- and theater-related courses for the organization since 2010.

 

Experience one of the most popular operas of all time from the comfort of the historic Lincoln Theater. Secure your seats today! Tickets are $25 for adults, $23 for LT members, and $5 for youth 18 and under and available in advance through the Lincoln Theater box office at www.LincolnTheater.net or at the door beginning 30 minutes before showtime. Lincoln Theater is located at 2 Theater St., Damariscotta.