Billy Corgan’s world premiere of “A Night of Mellon Collie and Infinite Sadness” captivated audiences at the Lyric Opera in Chicago on March 1, 2024. The concert transformed the iconic 1995 double album by the Smashing Pumpkins into an operatic experience, showcasing Corgan’s musical vision and emotional depth. The event, which has nearly sold out all seven performances, highlighted the album’s sweeping melodies and intricate compositions, reinforcing Corgan’s status as a significant figure in contemporary music.
Unlike traditional operas that typically follow character-driven narratives, the 90-minute program focused primarily on the music. Corgan collaborated with arranger-conductor James Lowe to create new arrangements that deviated from the original album’s track order and provided fresh context to the pieces. This approach allowed the music’s inherent beauty to shine, making it accessible to both fans of the band and opera enthusiasts.
The choice to adapt such a celebrated rock album for the operatic stage sparked considerable interest. Corgan’s connections to Chicago, where he resides, and the album’s 30th anniversary added layers of significance to the premiere. After attending a performance of Mozart’s Requiem at the Lyric in March 2024, Corgan began exploring ideas for this unique project.
As the concert unfolded, Corgan took a somewhat subdued role, performing lead vocals on only five songs. Instead, the spotlight was shared with the Lyric Opera Orchestra and Chorus, alongside guest vocalists Sydney Mancasola, Zoie Reams, Dominick Valdés Chenes, and Edward Parks. The staging was unconventional; the orchestra was positioned on stage while the chorus elevated the performance’s visual impact from behind. This arrangement, coupled with minimal physical acting, allowed the music to take precedence.
The costumes, crafted by Corgan’s wife Chloe Mendel and her father, fashion designer Gilles Mendel, blended formal attire with whimsical elements, enhancing the evening’s atmosphere without overshadowing the music. Visuals played a crucial role in the presentation, featuring illustrations and animations that echoed the antique aesthetics of the album artwork. The projections incorporated steampunk and Art Deco motifs, bringing to life Chicago’s skyline and historical landmarks in a fantastical manner.
Despite the absence of surtitles, the performance’s focus on musicality and emotional resonance allowed the audience to engage deeply with the arrangements. Some segments, however, faced challenges. Certain lyrics, particularly in the dramatic reimagining of “Bullet with Butterfly Wings,” felt disconnected from their intended emotional weight. Nevertheless, the overall experience offered a rich tapestry of sound and sight, pulling from the depths of Corgan’s original material.
As Corgan stepped onto the stage for the opening number “Thirty-Three,” the pride in his expression was evident. The evening marked a significant moment not only for him but for the Lyric Opera and the city of Chicago. The concert’s unique blend of rock and opera invites curiosity about its potential resonance outside Chicago, positioning the Lyric as a pioneer in embracing innovative artistic expressions.
“A Night of Mellon Collie and Infinite Sadness” stands as a testament to the evolving landscape of performance art, merging genres and reaching new audiences. The collaboration between Corgan and the Lyric Opera may redefine expectations of what opera can embody, while also celebrating the enduring legacy of the Smashing Pumpkins.
