Spoleto offers edgy fare

What makes Spoleto USA different from any other U.S. festival is its focus on the edgiest and most unusual ensembles and productions in music, dance, opera, theater and other performing arts. Now celebrating its 33rd season in Charleston, S.C., the festival is a magnet for those who crave something more than conservative productions and standard fare.

Opera is always the centerpiece, and this year will feature a new production of Gustave Charpentier’s rarely performed “Louise.” Written in 1900, its music foreshadowed Debussy. Because the plot is similar, it’s sometimes called “the French ‘La Boheme,’ ” and is probably a great choice for anyone who has seen “Boheme” a few times and would like to venture further into verismo opera. There are more than 30 characters in this elaborate work, which opens May 22.

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Andrew Eccles

Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater will perform at the festival, as will Cedar Lake Contemporary Ballet.

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Zarmik Moqtaderi

Soledad Barrio is the lead dancer of the group Noche Flamenca.

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One of the more titillating works in this year’s lineup is “Don John,” a new version of “Don Juan,” performed by Britain’s Kneehigh Theatre. Described as “visually stunning and rather racy,” it features this company’s own style of physical theater, original music and lively staging. It’s probably not the thing to take your grandmother to see, although that might depend on the grandmother. Daily performances.

“Addicted to Bad Ideas: Peter Lorre’s 20th Century” is the title of a new cabaret punk-rock operetta, performed by the World/Inferno Friendship Society. It uses Peter Lorre’s trajectory from star to archetype of alienation as a metaphor for the whole 20th century. This show offers complimentary earplugs for those who think they might want them. Starts May 27.

Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater will be back, along with the noted Cedar Lake Contemporary Ballet and Noche Flamenca.

There’s an extensive jazz bill and a series of new music. The Westminster Choir, arguably the finest choral ensemble in America, from Princeton, N.J., will be on hand.

This is the farewell season for Georgia native Charles Wadsworth, who has hosted the chamber music series here and in the original Spoleto Festival in Italy for 50 years. He has a folksy/corny style that many fans find irresistible, and he has brought in an incredible range of talent. Chamber programs are not announced until you are in your seat (which some find annoying and patronizing); but there’s no denying the talent he attracts, and they’ll all be on hand this year to show their appreciation to Wadsworth.

The festival runs from May 22 to June 7. Tickets for most events are easy to obtain. Tickets range from $10 to $130. It’s wise to study the Web site or brochure and order tickets before arriving. Even so, many events aren’t sold out, so it’s also possible to just show up. As for accommodations, there are still plenty of hotel rooms available, especially if you don’t insist on staying downtown.

Also, check out Piccolo Spoleto, a giant menu of mostly local events running alongside their more expensive cousins. This features everything from gospel choirs to theater, jazz and pop groups. Most of these events are free, and few require any reservations. There’s a link to the Web site at the main festival site, and you can pick up copies of the program books all over Charleston.

Spoleto Festival USA

A multidisciplinary arts festival held in various venues in and around Charleston, S.C. May 22-June 7. $130-$10. 843-579-3100; Spoleto Festival USA.