"Gazale, Kathleen Kim, Park Ji-min..." Star Vocalists to Perform Verdi's 'Rigoletto'

[Financial News] Last year, Sol Opera Company successfully presented the first Korean performance of 'Turandot Arena di Verona Original'. This year, they will stage Verdi's masterpiece opera 'Rigoletto'. Notably, Italian baritone Alberto Gazale will make his first appearance in Korea, showcasing a strong presence.
'Rigoletto' is a three-act opera based on Victor Hugo's play 'The King Amuses Himself'. It tells the story of the jester Rigoletto, who seeks revenge after losing his daughter to a lecherous duke, leading to a tragic end. The tragic narrative intertwined with power, conspiracy, love, and revenge is considered one of Verdi's three great masterpieces of his middle period and has been consistently performed worldwide for over 170 years since its premiere.
Particularly, the quartet in the third act is famous for Hugo's anecdote of admiration, saying, "How effective it would be if four people could speak simultaneously in my play." Beyond simple musical technique, it combines the duke's frivolity, Maddalena's seduction, Gilda's innocence and sorrow, and Rigoletto's despair and desire for revenge, creating musical and emotional climax.
The representative aria 'La donna è mobile' was cherished by Verdi so much that he advised the tenor not to sing it publicly until the day before the premiere, and it gained explosive popularity upon release.
This production maximizes visual immersion by combining traditional weight with a revolving stage and video mapping. Directed by Kim Sook-young, who won the 'Director of the Year' award at the 3rd Korea Opera Awards, it delicately explores the conflicts and emotions between characters.
The baton will be held by Marcello Mottadelli, who has been active on major stages worldwide. He is expected to bring dramatic tension with profound musical interpretation.
Alberto Gazale, who has been active in major theaters worldwide, will play the role of Rigoletto. Lee So-young, director of Sol Opera Company, said, "Gazale is considered the most authentic singer for the role of 'Rigoletto' in recent years." Baritone Kang Hyung-kyu will also play the same role, deeply portraying Rigoletto's despair and paternal love.
The role of Gilda will be played by star soprano Kathleen Kim and Natalia Roman. Kim, who debuted at the New York Metropolitan Opera, is a representative lyric coloratura soprano active on the world stage following Sumi Jo. Natalia Roman has been praised for her emotional and rich interpretation, performing as a lead on top European stages, including Arena di Verona. The two vocalists will express Gilda's purity and tragedy with different charms.
The role of the Duke of Mantua will be cast with tenor Park Ji-min and Kim Jin-hoon. Park Ji-min, a vocalist who has played lead roles on top stages worldwide, including the Royal Opera House in Covent Garden, UK, will present a captivating and provocative duke. Kim Jin-hoon, a tenor who has built an international reputation by winning major European competitions, will showcase the duke's charm with solid musical skills.
The role of Maddalena will be played by mezzo-soprano Anna Victoria Pitts, known for her wide repertoire. Additionally, top domestic vocalists, dancers, orchestra, and choir will complete a splendid stage blending deep drama and grand music. October 31~November 2 at Seoul Arts Center Opera House, Seocho-gu, Seoul.









jashin@fnnews.com Shin Jin-a Reporter