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RIGOLETTO: Banned at the Box Office

  • Mecantile Library 414 Walnut Street, Suite 1100 Cincinnati, OH, 45202 United States (map)

Though Giuseppe Verdi’s Rigoletto now occupies a secure position in the operatic canon, at its premiere, it was the subject of significant controversy and censorship. The source material for the libretto had already been banned in France: the drama Le roi s’amuse (The King Amuses Himself) by Victor Hugo. Determined to adapt the play into an opera, Verdi fought at every turn to preserve the power of the story and integrity of the source material, with varying degrees of success. Join in this exploration of Rigoletto, as well as Verdi’s other hotly contested operas, featuring special musical performances.

Admission is free, though seating is limited and reservations are required.
A $2.50 per-ticket processing fee will be assessed for all orders.

Earlier Event: February 1
OFNW: Lalovavi
Later Event: March 12
TOSCA: A Roman Evening