Bellissima Opera is staging Mozart's politically charged comedy at one of Oak Park's oldest civic buildings later this month, with a twist: four historical figures appear alongside the singers to dramatize the real-world fight that nearly killed the opera in 1786.

"The Marriage of Figaro – Unwrapped and Revealed" runs Thursday, July 30, and Friday, July 31, at 7 p.m. in the Grand Ballroom of the Nineteenth Century Charitable Association, 178 Forest Ave. The production is directed by Carl Ratner, with a concept by Christine Steyer, Bellissima Opera's founder and co-artistic director.

What makes this production different

The company says its format places Mozart, librettist Lorenzo Da Ponte, playwright Pierre Beaumarchais, and Emperor Joseph II alongside the opera's action. Through dialogue, letters, and commentary woven between scenes, audiences see the struggle between artistic expression, censorship, and political power that nearly prevented the opera from reaching the stage, according to a BroadwayWorld announcement published June 16.

"At the same time, it allows audiences to discover the enduring questions it raises about privilege, power, and who gets to shape society," Steyer said in the June announcement.

The opera itself follows servants Figaro and Susanna as they outwit their employer, Count Almaviva, exposing hypocrisy and proving that intelligence and love can triumph over status.

Cast and creative team

Baritone José Luis Maldonado stars as Figaro. Marissa Howard sings Susanna, Caden Cole plays the Count, and Steyer herself takes on the Countess. Actors Peter Stigdon and John B Boss portray Mozart and Beaumarchais in the historical frame. Nathan Eck serves as pianist.

Bellissima Opera and Working In Concert co-produce the show, which features period costumes with a modern twist, according to the company's website.

The venue

The Nineteenth Century Charitable Association, a nonprofit founded in 1891, occupies a 1928 landmark building on Forest Avenue. The NCCA's calendar listed a "Bellissima Opera Preview" on Monday, July 20, as a special event open to the public.

How to attend

Performances are Thursday, July 30, and Friday, July 31, at 7 p.m. at 178 Forest Ave., Oak Park. Tickets can be booked through Bellissima Opera's website. For questions, contact Claudia Hommel at (773) 509-9360 or [email protected].