If opera has an icon it is surely Rigoletto, the tortured jester of Verdi's great musical drama, inspired by a Victor Hugo tale. He tries to protect his innocent daughter, Gilda, from the ravages of the real world, but when the lustful Duke of Mantua spots her-well, tragedy ensures. This Opera San José production features Christopher Bengochea and Isaac Hurtado trading off as the despicable duke, while Rochelle Bard and Khori Dastoor (who was a revelation in the season-opening production, Lucia di Lammermoor) take turns as Gilda. Rigoletto will be played, on alternate nights, by Scott Bearden and Andrew Fernando.

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