This was my first opera, and it had to be Rigoletto. I’ve seen a few variations here on KZbin as well as the 1983 film with Guberova/Pavarotti/Vixel and my favourite recording being the 1971 Bonynge. So not to set the bar too high for my first encounter or anything. I was not disappointed. The ENTIRE spectacle was absolutely sublime. The cast, the orchestra, the costumes, the set, the lighting, the direction, the staff at WMC, everything, everyone. The projection of emotion coming from the lead roles, I felt every note hit my soul as though it were a cannonball. It was a dream come true. and a special mention for Sparafucile and Maddalena, probably the sexiest performance I’ve seen on a stage. Over a month later and I’m still obsessing over it. Divine, unforgettable, STUPENDA!!!