Georgia State University Opera Theater presents Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s beloved opera, Le nozze di Figaro (The Marriage of Figaro), in three performances at the Rialto Center for the Arts: Friday, April 13 and Saturday, April 14 at 8 p.m.; and Sunday, April 15 at 3 p.m. Each performance will be preceded by a free, pre-opera lecture by Dr. James Cooney in the lower-level Suntrust Suite of the Rialto Center, one hour prior to performance time. All lecture attendees will also receive a complimentary copy of an educational opera mini-guide written expressly for these performances.

Le nozze di Figaro has been among the most-performed operas in the world since its debut in 1786. Plots and subplots, mix-ups and fix-ups, cat-calls and pratfalls abound in a delightful mix of infectious, instantly recognizable melodies and bawdy humor. But this seemingly gauzy operatic confection also explores more serious territory such as the interplay of class, power and privilege, resulting in a profound comedy of the human condition.

Tickets range from $22-$48 (students may receive 1/2 price tickets with ID) and are available in person at the Rialto Center Box Office, by calling (404) 413-9TIX or online at www.rialtocenter.org. Free parking is provided for this event at the Equitable Building deck on Fairlie Street.

Collin Kelley has been the editor of Atlanta Intown for two decades and has been a journalist and freelance writer for 35 years. He’s also an award-winning poet and novelist.