Malaysia, are you ready to see the Don on stage? Kuala Lumpur City Opera invites you to witness their rendition of the classic opera, Don Giovannim, this October.
Don Giovanni was written by the Italian libretto, Lorenzo Da Ponte, with music composed by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, with the story based on the centuries-old legend of Don Juan written by the Spanish writer Tirso de Molina. The 1787 opera is considered one of the greatest of all time, and is also known as one of Mozart’s most renowned works, dealing with themes of tragedy, seduction, and ultimately, damnation.
The Kuala Lumpur City Opera (KLCO) promises audiences a contemporary take on the classic piece, set in modern-day Malaysia rather than in 18th-century Europe. The Don will be portrayed as a young, manipulative, yet charismatic businessman in the fashion industry. Through the promiscuous Don’s heinous acts, his life spirals downwards, ending in sure demise.
Attendees will also have a chance to hear the Singaporean stage director and producer, Heather Tan, discuss how this reimaging of Don Giovanni came to life. The production will be conducted by Bernard Tan, with Cao Yixiao playing the titular Don.
“Don Giovanni is a very popular opera that is considered a staple in many opera practitioners’ repertoire. By transplanting the story into the heart of Kuala Lumpur, we’re able to highlight its timeless themes of ambition, desire, and downfall within a distinctly Malaysian context,” said Heather in an interview with The Star.
Catch the Kuala Lumpur City Opera’s rendition of Don Giovanni this October 23 to 26 at Pentas I in klpac, Kuala Lumpur.