The LA Opera has announced two major cast changes for its upcoming production of Rigoletto, scheduled to open on May 12.

Baritone Leo Nucci, who had been scheduled to perform the title role on May 12, 16 and 19, opted out the performances as he is limiting his performances outside Europe. As a result, he will be replaced on those dates by Spanish baritone Juan Jesús Rodríguez, who is scheduled to make his debut.

Soprano Irina Lungu, who had been announced to perform the role of Gilda on May 27, 31 and June 3, also announced that due to scheduling difficulties she would not be able to perform. As a result, recent Operalia winner Romanian soprano Adela Zaharia will make her LA Opera and U.S debut one season before anticipated.

The rest of the performances which are scheduled for May 27, 31, and June 3, 2018 will be performed by Ambrogio Maestri and Lisette Oropesa.