On Nov. 20, the Teatro San Carlo is set to open its 2024-25 season with a new production of “Rusalka.” The company has assembled an all-star cast including Asmik Grigorian and Adam Smith, among many other notable names. But the evening is even more special as Georgian Mezzo superstar Anita Rachvelishvili will make a return to the opera stage.

After months of cancelations due to vocal issues and several concert performances, Rachvelishvili will make her return to the opera in her role debut as Jezibaba. It’s a departure from the mezzo’s core repertoire who has become well known for her work in Verdi, verismo, and especially her Carmen. She has been hailed for her “sonorous voice,” and “impressive expressiveness.” Jezibaba is a role that plays to Rachvelishvili’s acting strength and of course her enormous and luxurious mezzo voice.

And for those not in Napoli to witness the mezzo’s stage return, La Rai will broadcast the opening night. Later in the season, Rachvelishvili will return to the Arena di Verona for her iconic “Carmen.”

Recordings 

For those wanting to revisit the mezzo’s discography, Rachvelishvili has recordings of “Aida” and “Prince Igor” from the Metropolitan Opera and “Cavalleria Rusticana” under Riccardo Muti. There is also a “Carmen” from the Metropolitan Opera and the Teatro alla Scala.

Here is a preview of “Rusalka” and a look at her Santuzza in “Cavalleria Rusticana.”

 

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