Kathryn Smith, General Director at Madison Opera
Madison Opera: Eight reasons to see “Don Giovanni”
April 10, 2025
If you’ve ever been curious about opera, or if you’re already a devoted fan, Madison Opera’s production of “Don Giovanni” is a performance you won’t want to miss. With drama, comedy, ghosts and seduction all set to Mozart’s transcendent music, this opera isn’t just entertainment—it’s an experience. “Don Giovanni” promises a night at the theater you won't forget. Need more convincing? Here are eight irresistible reasons to grab your ticket.
1. It’s dramatic, thrilling, funny and scandalous – not to mention musically stunning.
2. It’s a classic. Based on the legend of Don Juan, “Don Giovanni” tells the story of a nobleman who seduces thousands of women, uncaring of who he hurts along the way. Over the course of a few days, his past comes back to literally haunt him, as the ghost of a man he killed comes for divine revenge.
3. Since its 1787 premiere, “Don Giovanni” has been performed around the world, beloved by audiences, performers and critics alike. French novelist Gustave Flaubert called it one of “the three finest things God ever made;” the others were “Hamlet” and the sea.
4. Because any opera that opens with a murder and ends with someone being dragged to hell by a statue makes for an absorbing few hours in the theater. Add in the sets, costumes and wigs and you’ll be transported to the 18th century.
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5. It stars a dynamic cast of young singers, including Charles Eaton, Katerina Burton, Emily Fons, Sachie Ueshima, Jeremiah Sanders, Andrew Stenson, Ashraf Sewailam and Lifan Deng. They have collectively sung at the Metropolitan Opera, Lyric Opera of Chicago, Washington National Opera, Houston Grand Opera and more.
6. In the words of Albert Einstein, “The music of Mozart is of such purity and beauty that one feels he merely found it—that it has always existed as part of the inner beauty of the universe waiting to be revealed.”
7. To give yourself a break from everyday life and escape for a few hours into a world of shadows and light, where passions flare, desires are fleeting, and it’s very important not to invite a statue to dinner.
8. This is Madison Opera’s first production of “Don Giovanni” in 12 years, and you only have two chances to see it, as it is not a touring production. This production, with this cast, the Madison Opera Chorus and the Madison Symphony Orchestra, can only be seen in Overture Hall on May 2 and 4. You won’t want to miss it!
A few FAQs:
What should I wear? Opera performances are no different than any other performance in Madison. Some audience members love the excuse to dress up, some prefer to wear jeans and sneakers. Both are completely welcome.
What about the foreign language? English translations of the text are projected above the stage, so you won’t miss a word!
How much are tickets? Over 17% of Overture Hall is priced at $20 per ticket (not including online fees), making an opera a truly affordable night out. Group discounts are also available. In addition, Madison Opera offers student rush for $20 the weekend of the show, giving you the best available seat in the house at an incredible price.
With only two performances, “Don Giovanni” is your chance to experience world-class opera right here in Madison. This is not just a performance—it’s an unforgettable night of music, drama and artistry brought to life by an exceptional cast, chorus and orchestra.
Don’t miss Madison Opera’s long-awaited return to this Mozart masterpiece on Friday, May 2 at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, May 4 at 2:30 p.m. Get your tickets now and prepare to be transported!
