The ‘Dateline’ of operas is coming to Charlotte

“Don Giovanni,” a dramatic comedy by Mozart, first performed in Prague in 1787, is coming to Charlotte. The Opera Carolina show promises the same plot twists as your favorite true crime TV show — including seduction, revenge and — of course — murder.

If you haven’t seen an opera but you can’t stop binging “Dateline” episodes as if they are bedtime stories (guilty!), this just might be the show for you. Actor Stephen Frye described to The Guardian why “Don Giovanni” makes for a good first opera. This show is considered one of the greatest operas in existence and has been called one of Mozart’s greatest works.

Here are a few things to know:

WHAT: “Don Giovanni” is about three women who join forces to stop Don Juan’s abuse of women. The story is set on the last day of Don Juan’s life.

TRUE CRIME: Here are 10 reasons why true crime fans will want to catch this performance, according to Erin Breeden of Blue Tide Creative:

1. Murder
2. A trail of broken hearts and promises
3. Vengeful fiancé
4. Revenge plot
5. Fraud
6. Cheating
7. Identity theft
8. Wedding day drama
9. Father’s revenge for his daughter
10. Supernatural element

“It’s like an episode of ‘Dateline’ but with extravagant sets and costumes and sung in Italian,” she said.

PRO TIP: Don’t worry if you don’t speak Italian (there are subtitles).

ALSO: If you’ve seen it before, take note of the performance’s new set and costumes.

How to get tickets for ‘Don Giovanni’

WHEN:

• Thursday, Feb. 3 at 7:30 p.m.
• Saturday, Feb. 5 at 8 p.m.
• Sunday, Feb. 6 at 2 p.m.

WHERE: Belk Theater

PRICE: Tickets start at $22 and can be purchased online.

COVID PROTOCOL: To attend a performance, Opera Carolina is requiring one of these three options:

• Proof of vaccination reflecting “fully vaccinated” as defined by the CDC
• Proof of a negative rapid or PCR test, taken within 48 hours of the performance
• A certificate of natural immunity from your physician or health provider dated within one month of the performance

Belk Theater at Blumenthal Performing Arts Center

Location: 130 N. Tryon St, Charlotte, NC 28202

Neighborhood: Uptown

Melissa Oyler

The Charlotte Observer

Melissa Oyler is the editor of CharlotteFive. When she’s not writing or editing, you’ll find her running, practicing hot yoga, weightlifting or snuggling with her rescue dogs, X and Charlie. Find her on Instagram or X: @melissaoyler. Support my work with a digital subscription