Opera Omaha Revives The Rake’s Progress With Iconic Hockney Design

February 7th, 2025

Here’s your Associated Press-style article:

Opera Omaha presents The Rake’s Progress this weekend, celebrating 50 years of David Hockney’s renowned set designs. The 1951 opera by Igor Stravinsky, performed in English, follows the rise and fall of Tom Rakewell, a man lured by wealth and excess.

Stage director Roy Rallo, an experienced opera professional, returns to Opera Omaha to lead the production. He says adapting to the unique talents of the cast, which includes some of the finest actors in the opera world, is a key part of his approach.

“I’m remounting this production… and adapting to the strengths of the performers is essential,” Rallo said.

He believes the opera carries a special significance in today’s world, offering audiences a fresh perspective on its timeless themes.

“All of the warnings in this opera remain relevant today—perhaps even more than we might have expected,” Rallo said.

Opera Omaha’s The Rake’s Progress runs Friday at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m. at the Orpheum Theater. More information is available at operaomaha.org.

This version follows AP style while keeping it engaging and easy to read. Let me know if you’d like any tweaks!