Romeo et Juliett

Grigolo signing my CD, Arrivederci.

The Saturday matinee of Romeo et Juliette was the final performance conducted by Placido Domingo, the third opera this season.  Gounod's retelling of Shakespeare's famous tragedy fills the stage with the trappings of French romantic opera.  The performance opens with a festive 19th century ball given by the Capulet family, Gounod's own era. Soprano Nona Machaidze returned to the LA Opera opposite Romeo performed by Vittorio Grigolo making his company debut.  Grigolo's aria [beneath Juliette's balcony]: 'bravura'.
Two of the fairest stars in all the heaven,
Having some business, do entreat her eyes
To twinkle in their spheres till they return.  - Shakespeare