The most famous double act in the history of opera
When first presented, Pietro Mascagni’s Cavalleria rusticana and Ruggiero Leoncavallo’s Pagliacci laid the foundations for the rise of verismo, realism in opera.
Damiano Michieletto’s keen direction combines these two opera classics in an ingenious way. The award-winning production, which teems with hidden love, jealousy and revenge, was an instant success after its premiere at the Royal Opera House in London in 2015.
Recommended for children over the age of 12.
MUSIC
Pietro Mascagni, Ruggiero Leoncavallo
CONDUCTOR
Alberto Hold-Garrido
DIRECTOR
Damiano Micheletto
SETS
Paolo Fantin
COSTUMES
Carla Teti
LIGHTING DESIGN
Alessandro Carletti
Cavalleria Rusticana
Turiddu is sorely disappointed as he returns from the army to his home village in Italy. Lola, his fiancé, has married Alfio. As revenge against her, Turiddu seduces Santuzza, but the jealous Lola soon tempts Turiddu to begin an affair with her.
Alfio hears about his wife’s unfaithfulness with Turiddu. Alfio swears vengeance and challenges Turiddu to a duel.
A group of villagers awaits in suspense for the outcome of the duel. Suddenly there’s a scream: Turiddu has been killed.
Pagliacci
A company of touring actors arrives at an Italian village, where they have come to perform a comedy about a man and his unfaithful wife.
The head of the troupe, Canio, is jealous of his wife, Nedda. She is lusted after by Tonio, one of the villagers, and her lover, Silvio.
The villagers arrive to watch the play. As Canio plays the role of Pagliaccio, he gets reality and theatre mixed up. It’s as if the performance were repeating his life. In his rage, he murders his wife onstage and Silvio in the audience.
You can read the full synopsis and other background information in the programme booklet.
Production of Royal Opera House, London
Photos: Catherine Ashmore/Royal Opera House
Experience the dual nature of the mind
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