The Coronation of Poppea

University Opera production of Monteverdi, 7:30 pm on 11/16 & 20 and 2 pm, 11/18, UW Music Hall. $25.

press release: Opera’s earliest masterpiece, Monteverdi’s The Coronation of Poppea (1643), takes us to a world where virtue is punished and ruthlessness and ambition are rewarded, to a republic in which the Head of State behaves very badly.  Roman Emperor Nero and his consort Poppea have no compunction about sweeping aside anyone who stands in the way of their union – including Nero’s wife Ottavia and his teacher, the philosopher Seneca.  After all is said and done, the couple rejoices in one of the most beautiful duets ever written.  This compelling drama, filled with stunningly gorgeous music, features a large cast of UW-Madison students accompanied by an ensemble of authentic period instruments. David Ronis, director. Ticketed event: adults $25; seniors $20; students $10. To avoid long lines, we suggest arriving 30 minutes early or buying tickets ahead of time, either in person or online.