by Márcio Bezerra
Palm Beach Opera opened its 2026 season Friday night with the ever-popular La Bohème by Giacomo Puccini. Premiered in Turin almost 130 years ago to the date, it has remained one of the five most performed operas worldwide.
Its simple yet heart-wrenching story, combined with Puccini’s unsurpassed gift as melodist, makes for a most satisfying night at the opera, for audience connoisseurs and beginners alike.
Utilizing traditional sets from Seattle Opera and costumes from Opéra de Montreal, Palm Beach Opera’s latest production did not fail to impress thanks to its strong cast and outstanding playing by the Palm Beach Opera Orchestra, under the direction of guest conductor Vincenzo Milletarì. In addition, the imaginative direction by Peter Kazaras and the sensitive lighting by Stuart Duke ensured a truly theatrical experience.
As Mimì, soprano Anita Hartig delivered her part with a solid technique and with an acting that grew more dramatic as the evening went on. Her opening aria, “Si, mi chiamano Mimì,” was sung in perhaps the slowest possible tempo, displaying a solid vocal technique. It lacked, however, the frailty demanded by the character, especially because her dynamics never went under a mezzo piano. Her transformation in the third act, however, led to a truly memorable “Addio, senza rancor!” and by the fourth act she had the house in her hands, giving an emotionally wrenching final scene.
Tenor Liparit Avetisyan was the perfect Rodolfo. His “Che gelida manina” was delivered with passion and without any strain in the higher notes. Avetisyan was also an accomplished actor both in the lighter moments of the opera and in its dramatic ending.
Alfredo’s friends were handled with success by veterans as well as trainees from the company’s Young Artists Program.
As Marcello, Edward Parks had an imposing stage presence and a voice that matched it. Soloman Howard made for a superb Colline, his booming voice projecting effortlessly. His “Vecchia zimarra, senti” was one of the highlights of the evening. Young Artist Mario Manzo was a vocally splendid Schnaunard.
Finally, as Musetta, Sydney Mancasola was an act on her own. Her “Quando m’en vo,” was vocally secure and her acting was natural, avoiding the sometimes over-the-top characterization of Marcello’s lover.
As always, Palm Beach Opera Chorus, under the direction of Greg Ritchey, delivered the goods. It was particularly engaging to see the children of the Young Singers of the Palm Beach share the stage with veterans in such a professional manner.
No review would be complete without mentioning the musical direction of guest conductor Milletarì. He shaped its orchestral phrases with utmost care and he provided the musical support needed by each singer in the most sensitive manner. It has been some time since the orchestra sounded this good.
All in all, a production to be remembered.
La Bohème continues tonight at the Kravis Center in West Palm Beach with Yunuet Laguna as Mimì and Oreste Cosimo as Rodolfo. The run concludes Sunday afternoon with Hartig and Avetisyan returning as Mimì and Rodolfo. Curtain rises at 7:30 pm today and 2 pm Sunday. Tickets: Call 561-832-7469 or visit kravis.org. Or, visit pbopera.org or call 561-833-7888.