When the righteous sin, can they be forgiven?

Leos Janacek's dark and brooding1904 Jenufa forms part of the Lyric Opera of Chicago's 2023/24 season in this transfixing production from Claus Guth. Familial honor is at stake, as a well-meaning woman takes terrible action to ensure her step-daughter's future in this emotionally overwrought psychological drama that pushes the performers and the audience. Lise Davidsen and Nina Stemme star, with Jakub Hrusa taking to the podium for his Lyric Opera debut.

What is the story?

Jenufa is a grim morality tale with themes that still echo in some climates around the world today. When Jenufa falls pregnant, she prays that the father, the boisterous Stava, will marry her and make her and the child legitimate, much to the chagrin of his stepbrother Laca, who is torn between love and jealousy for the young woman. When Stava abandons he,r Laca acts out maliciously, and it is up to her severe stepmother, Kostelnica to step in, leading to a suitably tragic outcome.

Set in 19th Century Moravia, Kostelnica has long been seen as Janacek's most vivid characters, as she is forced to deal with the secret prenancy and resulting child, attempting to save Jenufa from ruin, whilst losing herself in the process. This story of redemption, sin, love and forgiveness is likely to stick with you long after you've left the auditorium