Charles Edwards’s deceptively traditional, exceptionally sung production of Bellini’s “I Puritani” makes space for its stars.

Beth Morrison has shepherded dozens of new works into existence over the past 20 years. And her footprint continues to grow.

In the mid-1600s, opera transformed from a show exclusive for royalty to entertainment for the masses. Soon, lavish productions, special effects, and creative risks became the norm. Venice’s La Fenice ...