Haymarket presents the Chicago premiere of Johann Adolf Hasse’s Neapolitan serenata "Marc’Antonio e Cleopatra" as a lavish operatic event featuring superstar countertenor Kangmin Justin Kim and contralto Lauren Decker.

Virtuosic music and high-baroque drama collide as history’s star-crossed lovers Mark Antony and Cleopatra contemplate their bleak political future—and ultimately their suicide—after their defeat in the Battle of Actium. Eavesdrop on the final declaration of undying love between Roman hero Mark Antony and his tragic Egyptian queen Cleopatra as they brace for their double suicides. 

Post-performance talk-back: Presented with members of the cast and creative team immediately following the performance

Performance Runtime: Two hours, including one 20-minute intermission

Hasse’s poignant, lyrical, and fiery musical portrayal of the scene requires the utmost vocal and dramatic virtuosity of its two performers. Haymarket highlights the gender-bending traditions of baroque opera, featuring countertenor Kangmin Justin Kim as Queen Cleopatra and contralto Lauren Decker as Mark Antony.

Haymarket General Director Chase Hopkins makes his directorial debut, blending his experience as both singer and creative producer, alongside historian, author, and scenic artist Wendy Waszut-Barrett, costume designer Stephanie Cluggish, wig designer Megan Pirtle, and lighting designer Brian Schneider to evoke the world of ancient Egypt. 

Craig Trompeter conducts the acclaimed Haymarket Opera Orchestra, renowned for its “unbelievable heated passions and dramatic instrumental climaxes” (Operawire), with celebrated guest harpsichordist Michael Beattie.

For more information on this Haymarket Opera Company production, please visit their website. 

While masks are not required inside the Holtschneider Performance Center concert halls, DePaul University continues to be a mask-friendly campus and wearing a mask will be highly recommended for all indoor spaces. Proof of vaccination or a negative Covid-19 test will no longer be required upon entry.  Details found here.