(Credit: Dario Acosta)

The Lyric Opera of Chicago has announced major cast changes for its upcoming Ring Cycle with two bass-baritones replacing Eric Owens in the role of Wotan. Owens has withdrawn to receive treatment for ongoing health issues.

In his stead, audiences will hear baritone Brian Mulligan in “Das Rheingold.” Mulligan was previously scheduled to appear as Donner, a role which will now be sung by Zachary Nelson.

Meanwhile, bass-baritone Alan Held will portray the role of Wotan in “Die Walküre” and interpret the Wanderer in “Siegfried.”

“I am deeply grateful to Anthony Freud, Sir Andrew Davis, Sir David Pountney, and all my Lyric colleagues for their support at this difficult time,” said Owens in a press statement. “I am also thankful for the enthusiasm and warmth Lyric’s audiences have shown me over the years that I have lived and worked in Chicago. My heartfelt thanks to everyone for understanding, and my best wishes for the success of Lyric’s amazing ‘Ring.’”

The “Ring” opens at the Lyric Opera of Chicago on April 13, 2020 with three cycles scheduled through May 3, 2020.