William Tell (Guillaume Tell)
Music by Gioachino Rossini
Libretto by Victor-Joseph Étienne de Jouy & L.F. Bis
Performed with the BLO Chorus & Orchestra
A new BLO production
Emerson Colonial Theatre
Friday, September 25 | 7:30pm
Sunday, September 27 | 3:00pm
Friday, October 2 | 7:30pm
Sunday, October 4 | 3:00pm
Sung in French with English supertitles
You’ve heard this music. But there’s more to the story.
From the first notes of its world-famous overture, Rossini’s final opera barrels forward as an epic ode to resistance, freedom, and the triumph of a united people over a tyrannical ruler. At the center of the action is William Tell – the legendary archer best known for successfully shooting an apple off his son’s head – leading a vibrant cast of characters who prove that ordinary people can be revolutionary together, and that love anchors us when the world turns upside-down.
BLO presents this heroic masterpiece in a fully staged Boston production for the first time ever, with Vita Tzykun and David Adam Moore serving as co-directors. Conductor David Angus leads the BLO Orchestra and Chorus through Rossini’s sumptuous score, with tour-de-force performances from George Gagnidze (William Tell), Anya Matanovič (Mathilde), Konu Kim (Arnold), Nina Yoshida Nelsen (Hedwige), Brianna J. Robinson (Jemmy), and more.
William Tell
Mathilde
Arnold
Hedwige
Jemmy
Rudolph
Gessler
Melchtal
Walter Furst
Ruedi
Leuthold
Conductor
Stage Director / Set Designer / Costume Designer
Stage Director / Projections Designer
Lighting Designer
Wig & Makeup Designer
Accessibility: Emerson Colonial Theatre offers accessible entry at the main entrance on Boylston Street, designated wheelchair seating, and an ADA accessible restroom on the Orchestra level. Please note that there is no elevator access in the building. See more at the colonial theatre’s Accessibility Page to learn more about large print programs, service animal policy, assisted listening devices, and more. If you have questions about accessibility in the venue, please contact our Audience Services team so that we may best assist you at 617.542.6772 or boxoffice@blo.org.
Restrooms: Restrooms are available inside the theater, including an ADA accessible restroom on the Orchestra level. Staff will be available to assist with directions as needed.
Amenities: Food and beverages will be available for purchase before the performance and during intermission.
Coat Check: Coat and bag check availability may vary by performance. We encourage guests to travel light when possible.
About the Venue: A cornerstone of Boston’s Theater District, the Emerson Colonial Theatre is one of the city’s most historic performance venues. Its grand architecture and intimate theatrical atmosphere make it an iconic setting for Boston Lyric Opera.
Public Transportation
The Emerson Colonial Theatre is within walking distance of several MBTA stations:
- Boylston (Green Line)
- Chinatown (Orange Line)
- Arlington (Green Line)
- Park Street (Red and Green Lines)
Driving Directions
From the North:
- Take I-93 South toward Boston.
- Take Exit 26 toward Storrow Drive.
- Follow signs for Cambridge / Storrow Drive.
- Take the Berkeley Street exit.
- Continue on Berkeley Street toward the Theater District.
- Turn right onto Boylston Street.
- The Emerson Colonial Theatre will be on your right at 106 Boylston Street.
From the South:
- Take I-93 North toward Boston.
- Take Exit 20 toward I-90 / Worcester / South Station.
- Follow signs for South Station / Chinatown.
- Continue along Kneeland Street.
- Turn left onto Washington Street.
- Turn left onto Boylston Street.
- The Emerson Colonial Theatre will be on your left at 106 Boylston Street.
From the Mass Pike:
- Take Exit 133 for Prudential Center / Copley Square.
- Follow signs toward Copley Square.
- Continue on Stuart Street eastbound.
- Turn left onto Tremont Street or Washington Street.
- Turn onto Boylston Street.
- The Emerson Colonial Theatre is located at 106 Boylston Street.
Parking
200 Stuart St. Parking Garage
Advanced online booking available.
Boston Common Parking Garage
0 Charles Street
Located a short walk from the theater.
47 Boylston Street Garage
47 Boylston Street
SpotHero
Additional nearby parking options may be available throughout the Theater District.
BLO is not affiliated with these parking options, and parking rates and availability are subject to change. Please check directly with each parking provider before your visit.
Nearby Restaurants:
- Ostra – Upscale Mediterranean seafood, perfect for a refined pre-show dinner.
- Shojo – Bold Asian fusion and craft cocktails in a lively setting.
- Yvonne’s – A modern supper club with inventive small plates and a vibrant atmosphere.
- The Tam – A classic Boston dive for a quick, casual bite or drink.
- jm Curley – Elevated comfort food and cocktails just steps from the theater.
- Legal Sea Foods – A Boston staple for classic New England seafood.
Things to Do:
- Boston Common – America’s oldest public park, just a short walk away.
- Boston Public Garden – A scenic stroll featuring the iconic Swan Boats.
- Freedom Trail – Explore historic Boston landmarks along this famous walking route.
- Downtown Crossing – Shopping, street performers, and city energy at your doorstep.
- Wang Theatre – One of Boston’s grandest performance venues, located nearby.
Whether you’re planning a full evening out or a quick stop before curtain, Boston’s Theater District offers a dynamic mix of dining, culture, and city life just steps from the Colonial theatre.
If you need any assistance or have any questions, please reach out to us at boxoffice@blo.org.