Opera ‘Romeo and Juliet’ returns

With husband and wife duo Stephen Costello and Ailyn Perez in the title roles, audiences can expect a passionate and realistic portrayal of the famous star-crossed lovers in San Diego Opera’s “Romeo and Juliet,” which opens March 13.

The third opera of the 45th International Season, “Romeo and Juliet” is “a masterpiece of grand French opera,” according to Edward Wilensky, director of media relations, and has not been seen in San Diego since 1998. It will be performed in French with English translations above the stage.

Also making a company debut with Costello and Perez is American baritone David Adam Moore as Mercutio. Rounding out the cast is American tenor Joel Sorensen as Tybalt, American bass Kevin Langan as Friar Laurent, American bass-baritone Scott Sikon as Capulet, New Zealand mezzo-soprano Sarah Castle as Stephano, American mezzo-soprano Suzanna Guzmán as Gertrude, American tenor Jospeh Hu as Benvolio, American baritone Malcolm MacKenzie as Gregorio, American bass-baritone Phillip Skinner as Friar Jean and the Duke of Verona, and American bass-baritone Paul Hindemith as Captain Paris.

Bringing her mastery of the French repertoire to the podium is San Diego Opera resident conductor Karen Keltner. Stage director Cynthia Stokes will make her company debut with these productions. Choreographers Keturah Stickann will stage the dance, and Dale Girard will stage the combat.

The sets and costumes are owned by the Utah Symphony and Opera.

• Performances: 7 p.m. March 13 and 16; 8 p.m. March 19; 2 p.m. March 21
• Pre-opera lectures: One hour before curtain, these 30-minute insights take place in the Civic Theatre and are free to ticket-holders
• Tickets: $39-$190; (619) 533-7000,