An unusual production of the “baritone version” of
Werther was mounted to showcase Dale Duesing in the title role; Antonio de Almeida conducted, and Francesca Zambello was the director. Duesing, always a powerful actor, sang all the performances; his Charlottes were Delores Ziegler and Victoria Livengood, with Gurcell Henry as Sophie.

Victoria Livengood (Charlotte) and James Michael McGuire (Albert) in Massenet’s Werther, 1989. © Ron Scherl

Delores Ziegler (Charlotte) and Dale Duesing (Werther) in Massenet’s Werther, 1989. © Matthew McVay

Delores Ziegler (Charlotte) and Dale Duesing (Werther) in Massenet’s Werther, 1989. © Matthew McVay

Dale Duesing (Werther) and Victoria Livengood (Charlotte) in Massenet’s Werther, 1989. © Ron Scherl

Victoria Livengood (Charlotte) and Dale Duesing (Werther) in Massenet’s Werther, 1989. © Ron Scherl