‘Vanessa’ in concert with the National Symphony Orchestra

On January 30 and February 1, Matthew Polenzani returns to The Kennedy Center, joining the National Symphony Orchestra for Samuel Barber’s haunting Vanessa. Presented in concert, the story follows Vanessa’s long wait for her lover Anatol, only to confront the complex emotional repercussions of their reunion, as well as the turbulent dynamics with her niece Erika, in a gripping tale of unrequited love.

Led by NSO Music Director and renowned conductor Gianandrea Noseda, Polenzani sings the role of the charming Anatolal. The all-star cast features Nicole Heaston in the title role, with J’Nai Bridges as the naive Erika, Susan Graham as The Old Baroness, and Thomas Hampson as The Old Doctor.