Gaetano Donizetti: Lucia di Lammermoor

The genius of Italian bel canto, Gaetano Donizetti (1797 – 1848), was an immensely hard-working composer, leaving behind a legacy of over 540 opuses. His forty-second opera, Lucia di Lammermoor, was inspired by a historical novel from the pen of the then hugely popular author, Sir Walter Scott, dating from 1819. The opera’s world premiere took place at the Teatro San Carlo in Naples, and marked a resounding success. The celebrated wedding scene sextet from the finale of the second act became a veritable hit, with audiences regularly requesting its repetition. In more than one respect, Lucia di Lammermoor set a milestone in the history of Romantic opera. Its productions require both flawless singing voices, and accomplished acting skills. Plus of course, the role of Lucia stands out as one of the most demanding coloratura soprano parts of the whole opera literature. The original premiere of this revived production took place at the Prague State Opera on September 30, 2004.

Renewed Premiere: Mar 10, 2011