As you read through this list take notice that there are no popular operas from the standard repertoire. We thought that instead we would spice things up by recommending five rare works that will still feed your interest.

Les Troyens – Wiener Staatsoper, Austria

Joyce DiDonato returns to the Vienna State Opera after years to sing her first production of Berlioz’s epic work. She is joined by Anna Caterina Antonacci as Cassandre in her house debut and Brandon Jovanovich as Enée. The three open Sir David McVicar’s production from the Royal Opera House. Alain Altinoglu conducts the production.

Sigismondo – Prinz Regent Theater, Germany

Marianna Pizzolato and Hyesang Park lead a concert performance of Rossini’s rarely performed work. The cast is rounded out by Antonino Siragusa and Guido Loconsolo. Keri-Lynn Wilson conducts the Bavarian Radio Orchestra.

Un Giorno di Regno – Teatro Regio di Parma, Italy

The Verdi Festival continues with a number of great Verdi masterpieces, but we recommend taking a look at Verdi’s rarely performed second work. The comedy features Michele Patti, Giulio Mastrototar, and Gioia Crepaldi in the Saturday performance.

West Side Story – Academia Nazionale di Santa Cecilia-Italy

Nadine Sierra and Alejandro Shrader headline concert performances of Bernstein’s classic. Sir Antonio Pappano conducts the orchestra and chorus of Santa Cecilia with a cast that also includes Tia Architto and Mark Stone.

Katiuska – Teatro La Zarzuela-Spain

Rocío Ignacio, Carlos Alvarez, and Jorge de León lead the cast in Sorozábal’s operetta. Emilio Sagi directs the star cast with Guillermo Garcia Calvo conducting. Performances this weekend take place on Friday and Sunday.