USD Opera to Present ‘The Light in the Piazza’
Originally premiering on Broadway in 2005, "The Light in the Piazza" quickly garnered critical acclaim for its sweeping score and poignant storytelling. Since its debut, the piece has enjoyed a unique dual life, embraced by both musical theatre companies and opera houses around the world.
With music and lyrics by Adam Guettel and book by Craig Lucas, “The Light in the Piazza” tells the story of American Margaret Johnson and her daughter Clara during a summer trip to Italy, where an unexpected romance challenges long-held assumptions about love, hope and protection.
USD Opera’s production highlights the work’s operatic richness while honoring its theatrical roots, offering audiences a powerful and emotionally resonant experience. The score’s lyrical sophistication and classical influences make it especially well-suited to operatic voices, contributing to its growing presence in the opera repertory.
“This piece lives beautifully in both worlds,” said Tracelyn Gesteland, DMA, professor of voice/opera and the Walter A. and Lucy Yoshioka Buhler Endowed Chair. “It has the intimacy and immediacy of musical theatre, combined with the vocal and orchestral depth of opera.”
The performance will include 19 students on stage and 15 students in the pit. Gesteland will direct the show, while Chun-Ming Chen, DMA, will conduct.
Tickets are available here and are 15 for adults, $12 for senior citizens (62+) and $5 for grades K-12. Tickets are free to current USD students with ID and for benefit-eligible USD faculty and staff with ID. Tickets will also be available at the door one hour before the show begins.
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