CSO Program Notes: Muti Conducts Verdi Un ballo in maschera

History supplied Verdi with the subject matter for this gripping drama. It is based on the true story of King Gustav III of Sweden, who was assassinated during a masked ball in 1792. Combining political intrigue, a love triangle and a fortune teller’s mysterious prophecy, the opera also contains radiant choral writing and richly scored dance music. Riccardo Muti leads a concert performance featuring a spectacular cast of international singers and the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and Chorus. Ticket holders are invited to a free preconcert conversation featuring Derek Matson in Orchestra Hall 75 minutes before the performance. The conversation will last approximately 30 minutes. No additional tickets required. Cast Francesco Meli tenor (Riccardo) Joyce El-Khoury soprano (Amelia) Luca Salsi baritone (Renato) Yulia Matochkina mezzo-soprano (Ulrica) Damiana Mizzi soprano (Oscar) Alfred Walker bass-baritone (Samuel) Kevin Short bass-baritone (Tom) Ricardo José Rivera baritone (Silvano) Lunga Eric Hallam tenor (A Judge) Martin Luther Clark tenor (A Servant to Amelia) Learn more: cso.org/performances/21-22/cso-classical/muti-conducts-verdi-un-ballo-in-maschera