More than 20 years have passed since the Washington National Opera last staged Verdi’s grand masterpiece in four acts, Don Carlo, and now a solid-gold cast heralds its return in this stunning new production by Tim Albery.

Leah Crocetto stars in the role of Elisabetta di Valois and shares the stage with Jamie Barton as Princess Eboli, Russell Thomas as Don Carlo, Quinn Kelsey as the Marquis of Posa, Eric Owens as Philip II and Andrea Silvestrelli as The Grand Inquisitor. Philippe Auguin conducts the performances from March 3 until the 17.

“My favorite part to sing is the big ensemble auto-da-fé scene. It’s so beautiful–so rich and so many layers. You have the full chorus, solo moments, and you really get to see King Philip’s rage come through. It’s very moving.” – Leah Crocetto

Once Don Carlo comes to a close, Ms. Crocetto is scheduled to appear at the Kennedy Center (March 22-24) to sing the soprano solo in Verdi’s Requiem, under the baton of Maestro Gianandrea Noseda.