Giacomo Puccini’s timeless opera, “Tosca” was brought to life by the Pacific Symphony, Pacific Chorale, Conductor Carl St. Clair and a talented cast of performers last night at the Renee and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall in Costa Mesa.

A wall of sound reverberated through the hall as Brian Jagde, Claire Rutter and George Gagnidze set the tone for this semi-staged production of love, deception and political corruption.

Rutter performed as the title character, Tosca, a beautiful artist with a jealous streak and deep passion for her lover Cavaradossi.  Jagde, played Cavaradossi, a painter, artist and victim of his own loyalty and subsequent betrayal. Gagnidze took the role of Scarpia, the corrupt police official whose vengeful quest for lust led to his demise.

All three of the main characters’ stories were told through the incredible voices of  world renowned opera singers.  A 90-foot-screen assisted in telling the story with images.  All the while, the award-winning Pacific Symphony and Pacific Chorale set the atmosphere with sound as the fast-paced story kept audience members on the edge of their seats.

Tosca is a sensational show for seasoned opera-goers and first-timers alike.  The classic story flows through character development, intrigue and brilliant production.

A night at the Segerstrom Center for the Arts is an unforgettable experience.  Pacific Symphony returns to the Renee and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall on March 10 with “Organ Recital: The Phantom of the Opera.”  Visit PacificSymphony.org or SCFTA.org for the complete calendar.