Nathan Gunn Makes His Directorial Debut with Don Giovanni

This February, Nathan makes his directorial debut with Don Giovanni at Lyric Theatre at Illinois.

Presenting a contemporary vision of the classic opera, Nathan portrays the infamous Don Giovanni as a corporate raider willing to exploit relationships in order to achieve his desires. The production explores the opera’s themes of social unrest and revolution, examining the role of pride and power in Don Giovanni’s ultimate downfall.

Recently named the Swanlund Chair professor of voice (the highest endowed chair at the University of Illinois), Nathan also serves as the general director of Lyric Theatre at Illinois. On his directing process, Nathan shares, “It’s an extension of what I already do on stage. I have to pay attention, listen to everyone out there. Directing is bigger, but when it comes to the performers, it’s basically what I’ve been doing for the past 24 years.”

Nathan will also sing the title role for three performances, presenting students with the opportunity to learn more about his performance process as a world-renowned opera singer. Florentine conductor Filippo Ciabatti conducts the production, which runs February 22-25.

Read more about Nathan’s directorial vision.