"The Rake's Progress"

ASU is pleased to present Stravinsky’s rarely performed operatic masterpiece, "The Rake's Progress", an English-language opera from 1951 in three acts and an epilogue, based loosely on the eight paintings and engravings "A Rake’s Progress" (1733–1735) of William Hogarth. 

The story concerns the decline and fall of Tom Rakewell, who deserts Anne Trulove for the delights of London in the company of Nick Shadow, who turns out to be the Devil. After several misadventures, all initiated by the devious Shadow, Tom ends up in Bedlam, a hospital for the insane at that time situated in the City of London. The moral of the tale is: "For idle hearts and hands and minds the Devil finds work to do."

Music by Igor Stravinsky; libretto by W. H. Auden and Chester Kallman; stage direction by David Lefkowich; music direction by Brian DeMaris.

This production contains mature content related to sex, violence and drug use. Recommended for audiences ages 14 and up. The Rake’s Progress is presented by arrangement with Boosey & Hawkes, Inc., publisher and copyright owner.

All ticket sales are ONLINE ONLY. There will be no in-person sales at the event. Please purchase tickets in advance. Guests who do not have a ticket at the door will be directed to purchase them online.

Face coverings are recommended in School of Music, Dance and Theatre indoor performance spaces. University COVID-19 information may be found at https://eoss.asu.edu/health/announcements/coronavirus.