The Demigods of Opera

This season at the Lyric Opera of Chicago has taught me many things, one of which is that leading men need not be portly, hairy primos. Friday's performance at the Lyric featured the dreamy, talented Dmitri Hvorostovsky in the main role of Tchaikovsky's Eugene Onegin, a role that he has rightly claimed as his own for the time being.

My goodness, what a way to end the 2007-2008 season. Every role was spectacular, an opulent feast of rich music and tones. Dina Kuznetsova put in a spectacular performance as Tatyana, and ably displayed the emotional evolution of the character. But Hvorostovsky stole the show with his glacial portrayal of Onegin. It was heartwrenching to see this character, so controlled and haughty for two acts, to suddenly find himself in the grips of a sincere passion for the one woman that he cannot have. HIs voice was so expressive that little acting was necessary, though his skills there were excellent. He has such a luxurious baritone voice - it was so tempting to close my eyes during his arias, which seemed to translate the Russian lyrics through tone alone. Though I did not have much sympathy for the character, I was deeply moved to see Hvorostovsky, previously poised and chillingly calm, throw himself at the feet of Tatyana, grasp her hands, beg her to love him again. It was beautiful beyond description.

Oh, to think that I have to wait until September for the next season to begin!