Huge operatic forces take no prisoners

Political scheming, a harrowing love triangle, and magnificent music. In Giuseppe Verdi’s opera, Don Carlos, Elisabeth is married to King Philip of Spain, but her heart belongs to his son, Don Carlos. Yet, the political machinations of the state prove more powerful than their profound emotions.

In this opera classic, love and politics give rise to Verdi’s affecting melodies. Merging the themes of unattainable love and the desire for freedom, Don Carlos emerges as one of Verdi’s most intricately woven operas. The story has been inspired by historical figures: King Philip II of Spain, his son Don Carlos, and Queen Elisabeth de Valois, who ruled Spain in the 16th century.

The stunning new production premieres at the Finnish National Opera in spring 2025.

Don Carlos is a co-production between The Royal Danish Theatre, Finnish National Opera and The Norwegian National Opera.

synopsis

Don Carlos, the son of King Philip II of Spain, is in love with Elisabeth, who has married Philip for political reasons. Spain’s oppression of the Flemish people brings Rodrigo to their defense, with Carlos’s support. Eventually, Carlos and Rodrigo are overpowered by dictatorship and the church, yet the ideal of freedom endures.

Full synopsis and other background information can be found in the programme leaflet.

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