You won’t find any modern works in this weekend’s recommendations. In fact, the big offerings around the U.S. center on the standard repertory with perhaps one exception (and that might not be much of one). Here are our picks (in alphabetical order by company).

Eugene Onegin – The Atlanta Opera

Tchaikovsky’s masterwork will get a showcase at The Atlanta Opera with David Adam Moore in the title role. William Burden takes on Lensky while Raquel González plays Tatyana. The cast is rounded out by Megan Marino as Olga. This is a solid cast overall and should make for a fine run, especially under the musical direction of Stephen Lord and stage direction of Tomer Zvulun. March 2 is the first performance.

The Flying Dutchman – Baltimore Concert Opera

On Friday and Sunday, audiences in Baltimore will get a chance to check out Wagner’s “Die Fliegende Holländer” in concert performance. Todd Thomas takes on the title role with Alexandra LoBianco as Senta and Justin Hopkins as Daland. Erik will be interpreted by Dane Suarez with James Harp conducting and performing the piano throughout the performance. It isn’t how we usually hear Wagner, but a more intimate musical setting is bound to create a unique experience.

Manon Lescaut – Dallas Opera

Kristin Lewis takes on the title role of Puccini’s early masterpiece. Emmanuel Villaume leads the performance which was one of OperaWire’s top 10 picks for early 2019 must-see operas. What will also enhance the experience is the return of tenor Gregory Kunde to a staged production in the U.S. after 12 years. Performances start on Friday and Sunday.

La Clemenza di Tito – LA Opera

Another showcase with a knockout cast, this time headlined by Russell Thomas who is slowly making this role his own. He is joined by Guanqun Yu, Elizabeth DeShong, and Janai Brugger. James Conlon conducts. And yes, the first performance is on Saturday, March 2, 2019.

Ariodante – Lyric Opera of Chicago

Alice Coote headlines a solid cast that includes Brenda Rae, Heidi Stober, Iestyn Davies, and Kyle Ketelson, among others. That is a solid cast for a baroque opera and conducted by Harry Bicket, it should only make the evening all the more potent. The opening performance of the run is on Saturday.