Robert Falls’ influence lingers in the world of opera as seen in the Lyric Opera of Chicago’s revival of “Don Giovanni.” Originally staged in 2014, this production takes center stage as the company kicks off its 2026-27 season. Falls, a prominent theater director who ended his tenure at the Goodman Theatre in 2022, brings his distinctive style back to life through this enduring performance.
The elaborate sets designed by Walt Spangler are a standout feature. These expansive designs include lush hedgerows, ornate Moorish lighting, and monumental stone structures. Such elements are reminiscent of Falls’ renowned Eugene O’Neill productions, blending classic tragedy with his own unique vision.
This staging of “Don Giovanni” incorporates another Falls hallmark, drawing inspiration from Tennessee Williams. Ana Kuzmanic crafts costumes that highlight seduction and power. At the opera’s climax, Duane Schuler’s lighting directs the audience’s attention to the moral questions at play. The lead character’s descent into a hellish chute evokes a strong response, prompting reflection on shared human sins.
Christian Van Horn reprises his role and embodies Don Giovanni’s notorious charm and villainy. Despite his wicked persona, Van Horn adds a touch of humor, allowing a sense of relief even as the opera’s storyline reaches dramatic tensions.
The production spans over three-and-a-half hours, delivering a richly detailed exploration of Falls’ artistic priorities. Much of it may not blend into contemporary interpretations, but it successfully showcases his theatrical strengths, indulging in excessive vibrance and intensity.
Maria Galoyan impresses as Donna Anna. Her vocal performances anchor the narrative while exposing the dark underpinnings of Don Giovanni’s character. From the chic portrayal by soprano Nina Solodovnikova as Donna Elvira to Lawrence Brownlee’s devoted Don Ottavio, each performer conveys their characters with careful precision.
Anna El-Khashem plays Zerlina, a peasant girl tormented by her own seduction. Her performance in “Là ci darem la mano” channels the emotional complexity of her character’s plight, capturing everyday elements with a sense of ease.
Mozart’s music remains compelling throughout the opera. Enrique Mazzola conducts with attention to the balance between formal composition and unexpected shifts, much like Mozart’s own nuanced approach. His music appears playful and contemplative, weaving layers of intrigue into the storyline.
The foundational simplicity of the opera serves to elevate the characters’ motivations. Donna Anna, played by Maria Galoyan, seeks to unravel the murder of her husband, a pursuit that shapes the opera’s layers of conflict and resolution. Van Horn’s portrayal of Don Giovanni reveals the protagonist’s initially enticing yet ultimately futile endeavors.
The production runs through November 1st at the Lyric Opera of Chicago. Tickets are available ranging from $48 to $402, inviting audiences to witness this remarkable return to Falls’ dynamic vision in opera.
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