CHICAGO—Those familiar with the movie “Moonstruck” (1987) will recognize that the glorious music of the opera “La Bohème,” by Italian composer Giacomo Puccini (1858–1924), was the delicious musical score that wafted throughout the film. Those who have never seen the movie or have never been to the opera might want to know what the “La Bohème” fuss is all about. They, as well as opera aficionados—who can’t get enough of the most spine-chilling, haunting music ever created—will find the “La Bohème,” now playing at the Lyric Opera of Chicago, an experience they will treasure.
The new-to-Chicago production, a revival of the 1993 Los Angeles production by Herbert Ross, is now in a triumphant presentation at the Lyric. It’s as good a reincarnation of the captivating masterpiece as one is likely to experience. Indeed, from romance to tragedy to glorious music to exceptional performances, this production has everything going for it.
