Event

The Lieder, Chanson, and Hungarian Songs of Franz Lehár

Transgressive Theatre-Opera concludes its season with The Lieder, Chanson, and Hungarian Songs of Franz Lehár. This concert event, featuring all female artists, once more examines the larger human condition from that perspective, as was highlighted in last seasons The Maligned Mezzo concert. This could be a continuing trend!

Lehár is often thought to be German, since his wonderfully successful operettas were written in that language. His Merry Widow is still one of the most popular operettas in the standard repertory. However, many do not know that Lehár was, in fact, Austro-Hungarian. Born in Hungary, and returning to Hungary before his death, Lehár penned glorious art song in his first tongue, while of course exercising his deep understanding of German. Even more surprising may be that his ear was so finely attuned to the French language, and his choice of French poetry to endow with his considerable melodic gifts proves that empathy.

TT-O seeks to bring together all communities in Chicagos beautiful human, patchwork quilt, particularly those classical music lovers (and classical music lovers to be!) from the German, French, and Hungarian peoples to hear these songs, written by a composer of profound gifts, and a deep connection to the heartfelt words of Hungarian, German, and French poets. This special concert has the potential to unite us all, at a time in our country's history when division seems to be the order of the day, helping us to momentarily rise above the scandals that beset us, while feeding our collective souls.

Sharing these messages are artists Meghan Guse (soprano), Elizabeth Rudolph (spinto soprano), Jennifer Barrett soprano/zwischenfach), Kathryn Wills (mezzo-soprano) and Teresa Kang (piano).

The performance will take place on March 24 at 8:00 at Chicagos DANK Haus, 4740 N Western Ave., which is wheelchair accessible.