Billy Corgan’s ‘Mellon Collie’ Reimagined as Opera at Lyric Opera of Chicago
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A groundbreaking operatic adaptation of The Smashing Pumpkins’ 1995 double album, Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness, premiered at the Lyric Opera of Chicago on Friday, November 21st, offering a stunning new interpretation of the iconic rock record. The production features symphonic and operatic arrangements of the album’s tracks, captivating audiences with a fresh perspective on familiar favorites.
A Bold New Interpretation of a 90s Classic
The ambitious project transforms the angst and grandeur of Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness into a fully staged opera, showcasing the album’s emotional depth through the power of the human voice and orchestral arrangements. The show includes reimagined versions of hits like “Tonight, Tonight,” “1979,” and “Bullet with Butterfly Wings,” breathing new life into the songs that defined a generation.
Vocal Powerhouse and Orchestral Brilliance
Billy Corgan himself participates in the performances, singing and playing guitar on select songs. He is joined by a stellar vocal cast including soprano Sydney Mancasola, mezzo-soprano Zoie Reams, tenor Dominick Valdés Chenes, and baritone Edward Parks. The music is expertly conducted by James Lowe and brought to life by the Lyric Opera Orchestra and Chorus.
Fan-filmed clips circulating on YouTube capture the striking reinterpretations of the songs, with the operatic rendition of the “Despite all my rage, I am still just a rat in a cage” chorus from “Bullet with Butterfly Wings” receiving particular attention.
See fan footage of the opera here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RICHARDTRICKLE
“Tonight, Tonight” Takes Center Stage
The beloved track “Tonight, Tonight” is given special prominence within the opera, appearing twice. The first rendition occurs early in Act One, performed solely by the choir, while the second, more elaborate performance closes out Act Two, featuring the choir, soloists, and Corgan himself.
Remaining Performance Dates and Ticket Information
A Night of Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness continues with six additional performances scheduled for November 22nd, 25th, 26th, 28th, 29th, and 30th. Tickets for the remaining shows are available for purchase here: [Get A Night of Mellon Collie and Infinite Sadness Tickets Here](Get A Night of Mellon Collie and Infinite Sadness Tickets Here).
Full Setlist Revealed
The opera’s setlist is divided into two acts, offering a comprehensive journey through the world of Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness:
Act One
- Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness
- Tonight, Tonight
- Jellybelly
- Galapogos
- Thirty-Three
- Beautiful
- Muzzle
- Lily (My One and Only)
- Stumbleine
- Thru the Eyes of Ruby
Act Two
- In the Arms of Sleep
- 1979
- By Starlight
- Bullet With Butterfly Wings
- To Forgive
- Cupid de Locke
- Porcelina of the Vast Oceans
- Tonight, Tonight
The production represents a bold artistic statement, demonstrating the enduring power of Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness and its ability to resonate with audiences in entirely new and unexpected ways.
See social media discussion of the opera here: https://twitter.com/sethsonstein/status/1726889999999999999
