On Dec. 8, 2023, the highly anticipated opera The Nose, composed by Dimitri Shostakovich in 1928, made its long-awaited Chicago debut at the prestigious Harris Theatre. Based on Nikolai Gogol’s 1836 novel of the same name, this opera is a whimsical and surreal journey into the absurd.
The Nose unfolds the peculiar tale of Kovalyav, a high-ranking government official who experiences a bizarre twist of fate when he wakes up one fateful morning without his nose. To make matters even more surreal, Kovalyav’s missing nose has taken on a life of its own, embarking on its own adventures throughout the town, garnering a peculiar kind of fame along the way.
Under the direction of Francesca Zambello, The Nose comes to life with a vibrant and captivating energy that keeps the audience spellbound from start to finish. Zambello skillfully navigates the opera’s eccentric narrative, embracing its absurdity while ensuring that every moment is executed with precision and flair. Her vision breathes fresh life into Shostakovich’s timeless composition, making it accessible and engaging for modern audiences.
The cast’s performances are spectacular, with each member showcasing their undeniable talents on the stage and in the spotlight. Kovalyav’s character is portrayed by Ukrainian-American baritone Aleksey Bogdanov with depth and authenticity, eliciting the audience’s empathy and amusement simultaneously. Chicago’s own Curtis Bannister enchanted the audience with a performance as the nose that was both hilariously regal and captivating. The ensemble’s chemistry is evident, and their vocal prowess thunders throughout the production.
Visually, The Nose is a feast for the eyes. The set design, costumes, and lighting transport the audience to the whimsical world of Gogol’s imagination, enhancing the opera’s surreal atmosphere.
The creative team’s meticulous attention to detail is evident in every aspect of the production, contributing to its overall success.
In conclusion, the Chicago debut of The Nose at the Harris Theatre is a visually stunning production. This rendition of Shostakovich’s classic opera proves that the magic of the absurd can still enchant and delight audiences in the 21st century.
