A New Chapter: Renée Fleming’s Directing Debut at the Aspen Festival
The world of opera is always abuzz with exciting developments, and this summer, the Aspen Music Festival is set to make waves with a unique production of Mozart’s Così fan tutte. Soprano Renée Fleming, a household name in the opera world, is stepping into a new role—this time, not as a performer, but as a director. Fleming will make her directing debut with Così fan tutte, a production that promises to breathe fresh life into Mozart’s timeless classic. With three performances scheduled from July 21 to 26 at the Wheeler Opera House, this event is a must-watch for both opera enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
A Modern Twist on a Timeless Tale
Mozart’s Così fan tutte is a beloved opera that has been enchanting audiences for centuries. Originally set in 18th-century Naples, Italy, the story revolves around the complexities of love, fidelity, and disguise. However, Fleming is bringing a modern twist to this classic narrative. She has reimagined the setting in 1980s Yarmouth, Massachusetts, a small coastal town, and is infusing the production with elements of high school life and the vibrant pop culture of the era. The early 1980s were a time of great change and self-expression, marked by the rise of aerobics culture—thanks to icons like Jane Fonda—and the emergence of professional wrestling as a form of entertainment. Fleming’s vision of Così fan tutte is a fascinating blend of Mozart’s intricate music and the relatable, often dramatic dynamics of high school relationships.
For Fleming, this production is more than just a creative experiment. It’s a way to connect the universal themes of the opera to a contemporary audience. “It’s supposed to be royalty or aristocracy,” she explained, referring to the original setting. “I’m putting this more in high school, 1980, Yarmouth, Massachusetts, at the beginning of World Wide Wrestling. Also, the early ’80s was Jane Fonda aerobics.” By grounding the story in a familiar setting, Fleming hopes to highlight the timelessness of Mozart’s work while making it more accessible to younger audiences.
Fleming’s Continued Impact on the Opera World
Renée Fleming, who recently celebrated her 66th birthday, is no stranger to innovation and reinvention. While she has scaled back her singing career in recent years—her last major staged performance was in 2017—she continues to be a driving force in the opera world. She sings in select recitals and contemporary operas, proving that her voice remains as captivating as ever. Her decision to take on directing is a natural extension of her passion for storytelling and her deep understanding of the operatic medium.
Fleming’s involvement with the Aspen Festival is not new. Since 2019, she has served as the co-artistic director of the Aspen Opera Theater and Vocal Arts Program, alongside conductor Patrick Summers. Summers, who will lead the student cast in this production of Così fan tutte, has praised Fleming’s intellect and artistic vision. “She is such a polymath,” he said. “I’ve known very few people in the opera industry as intelligent and as nice as Renée Fleming.” The collaboration between Fleming and Summers promises to deliver a production that is both artistically compelling and deeply personal.
The Aspen Festival: A Celebration of Music and Innovation
The Aspen Music Festival, running from July 2 to August 24, is one of the premier classical music festivals in the world. It’s a place where established artists and rising stars come together to celebrate music in all its forms. This year’s festival is particularly special, with a lineup that includes the world premiere of Christopher Theofanidis’ Siddhartha, She on August 2. This gender-swapping music drama, based on Hermann Hesse’s 1922 novel Siddhartha, features a libretto by Melissa Studdard and will be conducted by Robert Spano, the festival’s music director since 2011. The combination of new works and reimagined classics ensures that the festival will offer something for everyone.
Fleming’s Journey: From Singer to Director
Renée Fleming’s journey from singer to director is a testament to her boundless creativity and dedication to the arts. She was originally set to direct Così fan tutte for the Washington National Opera at the Kennedy Center in February 2021, with Paulo Szot as Don Alfonso, but the production was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite this setback, Fleming remained committed to bringing her vision to life. Her resignation as artistic adviser at the Kennedy Center, following the departure of Deborah Rutter as president and changes in the organization’s leadership, has allowed her to focus on new opportunities like her work at the Aspen Festival.
Fleming’s decision to shift her focus to directing is not just about exploring a new creative avenue; it’s also about nurturing the next generation of opera talent. The Aspen Festival’s emphasis on education and artistic development aligns perfectly with her goals. By working with a student cast, Fleming is helping to shape the future of opera while pushing the boundaries of how this art form is experienced.
Conclusion: A Legacy of Innovation and Artistry
Renée Fleming’s directing debut at the Aspen Festival is more than just a single event—it’s a milestone in a career defined by innovation and artistry. By reimagining Così fan tutte in a contemporary high school setting, Fleming is reminding us that opera is not just a relic of the past but a living, breathing art form that can resonate with audiences of all ages. Her collaboration with Patrick Summers and the Aspen Festival’s commitment to showcasing both classic and new works ensure that this summer’s production will be unforgettable.
As the Aspen Festival gears up for a season filled with music, drama, and innovation, Renée Fleming’s Così fan tutte stands out as a highlight. It’s a celebration of Mozart’s genius, a testament to Fleming’s versatility, and a reminder of the transformative power of opera. Whether you’re a longtime opera fan or someone looking to experience it for the first time, this production promises to be an unforgettable experience.
