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.

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synopsis

Background

King Philip II reigns over Spain. He had originally arranged for Don Carlos, his son and heir to the throne, to wed the French princess Elisabeth de Valois. At the last moment, however, the King decides to secure the political alliance by marrying the princess himself. Elisabeth and Carlos become stepmother and son, though they have already fallen in love.

Act I

Crown Prince Don Carlos visits the monastery where his grandfather, Emperor Charles V, retired after abdicating the throne. It is uncertain whether the former emperor is still alive. Rodrigo, the Marquis of Posa and a close friend of Carlos, arrives and urges him to go to Flanders, where people are suffering under Spanish oppression. Supporting Flanders’ struggle for freedom would distract Carlos from his sorrows and grant him the political power he desires.

Princess Eboli, a member of the court, is passing the time in the palace garden with her ladies-in-waiting. Eboli sings a song implying her jealousy. The Queen soon joins them, and Rodrigo delivers a message from Carlos. Elisabeth and Carlos meet, awakening the King’s suspicions.

The King confides in Rodrigo, impressed by his directness. Realising that the King’s favour could help Flanders’ cause, Rodrigo agrees to undertake a clandestine mission.

Act II

Carlos arrives at the secret meeting, only to discover that it is not Elisabeth who awaits him. The forbidden love between Carlos and the Queen is at risk of being exposed, and Rodrigo steps in as a mediator. Carlos is unsure whose side Rodrigo is truly on.

In a public square, preparations are under way for a state celebration and a ceremonial execution. Unexpectedly, Carlos appears with a delegation from oppressed Flanders, openly challenging his father, the King.

Act III

Carlos has been imprisoned. Alone in his study, King Philip II is confronted by the Grand Inquisitor, who demands harsh measures against dangerous ideas. He threatens the King should he fail to comply.

After the Grand Inquisitor’s departure, Queen Elisabeth enters, followed by Princess Eboli and Rodrigo. The King’s suspicions of the Queen’s infidelity come to a head. Wracked with remorse, Eboli confesses all to Elisabeth. She is determined to save Carlos.

Rodrigo vows to sacrifice himself for his friend, but as he visits Carlos in prison, he is struck down by an assassin sent by the Inquisition. The King witnesses this, and soon Eboli arrives with a crowd demanding justice. They fall silent in fear upon the Grand Inquisitor’s appearance. Carlos, however, has already slipped away.

Act IV

Queen Elisabeth meets Carlos in secret to help him flee to Flanders, but the enemies of the Crown Prince are already closing in. Carlos has found inner peace regarding his love for Elisabeth, but has Elisabeth resolved her feelings?

Auli Särkiö-Pitkänen

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tickets and performances

The performance includes several short pauses for set changes, during which the auditorium is dimly lit, and the audience remains seated. The interval begins when the curtain falls and bright lights are switched on.

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