Elizabeth Futral To Sing Ophelia In WNO's HAMLET, Runs 5/19-6/4

Washington National Opera, under the leadership of GeneralDirector Plácido Domingo, has announced that American coloratura soprano Elizabeth Futral will sing the role of Ophelia in all performances of the company's upcoming production of Ambroise Thomas' Hamlet, May 19 to June 4 at the Kennedy Center Opera House. Ms. Futral replaces German sopranoDiana Damrau, who has withdrawn from all performances.

Ms. Damrau, who is pregnant with her firstchild, has been advised by her doctors to avoid strenuous activity and air travel, thus preventing herfrom being in Washington.Hailed as "absolutely ravishing" by Opera News, Ms. Futral last appeared with WNO in La Traviata in September 2008, and her history with WNO dates to her company debut in 1997 in Gounod's Roméo et Juliette. Ms. Futral's complete biography may be found on her website, www.elizabethfutral.com. 

Previously announced cast changes include American baritones Liam Bonner and Michael Chioldi in therole of Hamlet, replacing Carlos Álvarez; Mr. Bonner and Mr. Chioldi's performance dates will beannounced.

Additionally, Maestro Plácido Domingo conducts performances on May 22, 24, June 1 and4; he shares the podium with Maestro Patrick Fournillier, who leads performances on May 19, 27 and30