To Diva Or Not to Diva

The fact that it’s the role that made Maria Callas’ American reputation and one that remained a signature through her career (she performed Norma eighty-nine times) says all you need to know about Norma—its extraordinary vocal challenges, its emotional intensity and dramatic weight. The tremendous demands the role makes on those who undertake it make Norma the Hamlet of dramatic soprano parts: Many attempt; few triumph. For the first time in its 50-year history, with celebrated soprano Brenda Harris in the quintessential bel canto title role, the Lyric Opera (1029 Central, 816-471-7344) tackles the story of the Druid priestess and her doomed love affair with the politician who betrays her, set to Vincenzo Bellini’s electrifying score. The run opens at 8 p.m. with additional performances at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, 8 p.m. November 12 and 2 p.m. November 14. Tickets are $25-$90. See kcopera.org.

Sat., Nov. 6, 8 p.m.; Wed., Nov. 10, 7:30 p.m.; Fri., Nov. 12, 8 p.m.; Sun., Nov. 14, 2 p.m., 2010