March 25, 2020: Utah Symphony | Utah Opera announced the suspension of performances through May 23, 2020 in response to the state’s increased COVID-19 precautions for social distancing and Salt Lake County Arts and Culture’s announcement that performing arts venues will be closed through May 15, 2020.

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She’s the sinner. He’s the saint. But what happens when those roles are reversed? Will either of them survive? (Hint: this is opera)

2018 Minnesota Opera Preview featuring Lorenzo Cutùli’s production

Athanaël, a Cenobite monk, resolves to convert his acquaintance Thaïs, the most admired courtesan in Alexandria, to a life of piety and devotion. After first mocking his conversion attempt, she meditates and determines to follow him despite the violent crowds who try to prevent her from leaving. As Thaïs enters the convent and her new life, Athanaël recognizes that he loves her desperately, but also that it may be too late for them.

Highlights:

Soprano Nicole Heaston, praised by the New York Times for her “radiant” and “handsomely resonant voice” performs the role of the Alexandrian courtesan Thaïs, thought to be one of the most challenging vocal roles in opera

Hear Massenet’s famous Méditation for violin and orchestra performed by the Utah Symphony in the context of the opera

Features a lavish production, with sets and costumes originally designed by Lorenzo Cutùli for Minnesota Opera.

Sung in French with English supertitles.