Lyric Opera of Chicago

Legendary stage director Sir Peter Hall has withdrawn from Lyric Opera of Chicago's premiere production of Sir Michael Tippett’s The Midsummer Marriage that he was to have directed, William Mason, the Lyric's general director announced in a press release. The company has attributed Hall's departure from the production as stemming from "health reasons."

“This is very difficult for all of us, and I’m very grateful for all that we’ve gotten from Peter already. The direction and groundwork have been firmly set for this wonderful production. This is a Peter Hall production,” Mason is quoted as saying.

British choreographer Wayne McGregor, 35, will reportedly assume directorial supervision of the new production, Mason announced.

“Peter Hall, [company music director] Andrew Davis, and I have every confidence in Wayne’s ability to ensure the success of The Midsummer Marriage, along with production designer Alison Chitty,” Mason said. “We have all been greatly impressed with Wayne’s brilliant choreography for this work.” Added Davis, “Wayne McGregor is one of the leading lights of the international dance world.”

Hall reportedly acknowledged that he hadn't felt well for a few days, according to the press release, and conceded as such in a brief statement made to performers and company members on Thursday. He is reportedly stepping down from the production per doctor's orders.

“Thank you all,” he is quoted as saying. “You’re a wonderful company and I think the work is terrific. I wish I could finish it for you.”

Hall has previously staged four operas at Lyric Opera of Chicago since the 1988-89 season, most recently Le Nozze di Figaro in 2003-04, Otello in 2001-02 and Così fan tutte in 1993-94. He has previously staged the world premieres of two Tippett operas: The Knot Garden (Covent Garden, 1970) and New York (Houston Grand Opera, 1989). He is a former artistic director of Glyndebourne Festival Opera