Billy Corgan debuted the long-anticipated operatic adaptation of Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness on Fri., Nov. 21, with the Smashing Pumpkins leader performing on opening night at the Lyric Opera of Chicago.

The new production presents a symphonic and operatic reimagining of the band’s 1995 double album, which debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 and marked a defining moment in the group’s commercial peak. Across the evening, selections including “Tonight, Tonight,” “1979,” and “Bullet With Butterfly Wings” were transformed for a full operatic cast and orchestra.

Corgan appeared as a featured vocalist throughout the performance, joined by soprano Sydney Mancasola, mezzo-soprano Zoie Reams, tenor Dominick Valdés Chenes and baritone Edward Parks. The Lyric Opera Orchestra and Choru

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