Photo Flash: First Look at Sophie Koch, Alice Coote and More in Lyric Opera of Chicago's DER ROSENKAVALIER

Lyric Opera of Chicago presents the perfect midwinter getaway: a beautiful production of Richard Strauss's delectably bittersweet romantic comedyDer Rosenkavalier, which opens on Monday, February 8 for eight performances through Sunday, March 13. BroadwayWorld has a first look below!

The opera stars Sophie Koch (Feb. 8-20) and Alice Coote (Mar. 4-13) in the title role as the teenage "rose cavalier," Octavian, who is amorously involved with a woman twice his age, the Princess von Werdenberg, a.k.a. the Marschallin, sung by Amanda Majeski. Her cousin, the boorish Baron Ochs (Matthew Rose/debut), plans to marry Sophie (Christina Landshamer/American debut) for her family's money. Sophie, however, falls hard for the betrothal messenger Octavian instead, and he with her. Much merry confusion ensues - including Ochs pursuing a chambermaid who's really Octavian in disguise - before the rapturous trio and duet that conclude this musically divine comedy, when the Marschallin releases her young lover and Sophie and Octavian are united.

Edward Gardner conducts the production directed by Martina Weber (both debuts). Sets and costumes are designed by Thierry Bosquet with lighting byDuane Schuler. Michael Black is chorus master.

The Music Information Summary for Lyric's production of Der Rosenkavalier can be found here.

Performance dates are February 8, 13, 16, 20, March 4, and 7 at 6:30pm; and March 10 and 13 at 1:00pm. For tickets and information call (312) 827-5600 or go to lyricopera.org/rosenkavalier.

PLEASE NOTE: All performances of Der Rosenkavalier will offer audiences the opportunity to observe Lyric's stage crew changing the scenery. Those who want to see how it all happens can remain in their seats at the end of Act One to see the changeover from the Marschallin's bedroom to Faninal's home, done in full view of the audience with narration by stage manager John W. Coleman.

BOX MEALS: Box meals are available for $15 and may be purchased in the lobby upon arrival at the Civic Opera House, for pickup during the first intermission. Choose from three delectable sandwiches (roast beef, turkey, or vegetarian) with chips and water.

Lyric's production of Der Rosenkavalier is generously made possible by anAnonymous Donor and Mr. & Mrs. Dietrich M. Gross.