Mozart’s “Idomeneo” Shows at Orcas Center

Sunday, April 9, 1 p.m., Orcas Center

— from Susannah Weaver —

Music Director Emeritus James Levine conducts Mozart’s “Idomeneo,” leading the remarkable ensemble cast of Matthew Polenzani, Elza van den Heever, Nadine Sierra, and Alice Coote.

“Idomeneo” by Mozart is based on material from ancient antiquity and tells the story of the king of Crete, Idomeneus. During his return from the Trojan War he gets into distress at sea. To survive, he vows to the god of oceans, Poseidon, to sacrifice the first man he encounters after his rescue.

His son Idamante is romantically involved with Ilia, a Trojan prisoner of war, and wants to marry her. But Elektra covets the prince as well. When Idamante learns of the disaster that struck his father’s fleet, he is convinced that Idomeneo is dead.

Idamante stands grieving at the beach when his father’s ship lands. He is overjoyed to see his father alive. However, Idomeneo is struck by terror: his son is the first human being he encounters on dry land. Is it possible to disappoint a god?

Mozart’s Idomeneo wants to save the life of his son at all costs. He sends him away to Elektra’s home country, in the company of Elektra herself. But Poseidon will not be deceived. A terrible storm destroys Idamante’s ship and a sea monster appears to claim the prince’s life.

Before Idamante sets out to challenge the sea monster, he and Ilia confess their love for one another. Facing the threat of the sea monster, Idomeneo is forced to divulge which sacrifice the monster demands: his son.

A human sacrifice is prepared at the temple of Poseidon. Idomeneo himself shall kill his son. In despair, Ilia interposes herself between the men. Finally, the voice of the oracle declares that Idamante can stay alive if Idomeneo abdicates and makes Ilia queen.

Mozart’s “Idomeneo” is a lyrical tragedy and is considered Mozart’s greatest choral opera – a treasure trove of recitatives, effects, choir and ballet scenes.” ( from www.mozart.com )

Tickets for the Met’s “Idomeneo” are $20 and $15 for students with $2 off for Orcas Center members. They may be purchased at www.orcascenter.org or by calling 376-2281 ext. 1 or visiting the Orcas Center Box Office open Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays from 12-2 pm. $5 subsidized tickets available at the Box Office. For more information about Orcas Center’s 2017 season visit www.orcascenter.org.