7.15pm
Giacomo Puccini
REVIVAL OF THE 1980 PRODUCTION
Masterfully conceived by a consummate storyteller, Anthony Besch’s treasured production of Tosca transports Puccini's powerful drama to Fascist Italy in the early 1940s, a setting entirely in tune with the dark intensity of this passionate tale. Rich with the glamour and detail of the period, the impressive staging brings to life the majesty and wonder of the Eternal City – Rome.
Floria Tosca is the talk of the town, a famed opera diva with many dazzled admirers. But she only has eyes for one man, Mario Cavaradossi. As his behaviour becomes suspicious, she fears he has another woman. But the truth is far more dangerous. Police Chief Scarpia is obsessed by Tosca, and plans to kill her lover and take her for himself. As Scarpia's schemes unfold, Tosca and Cavaradossi are drawn into a trap from which there is no escape.
Puccini’s music, at times heartbreakingly tender, at times powerful and harrowing, captures the sweeping span of this epic story - from the exquisite stillness of a silent dawn in Rome, to the raw drama of Tosca’s final, desperate plight. Susannah Glanville, star of Opera North’s 2009 production, returns to the title role. English baritone Robert Poulton is Scarpia, and Spanish tenor José Ferrero sings Cavaradossi. Scottish Opera’s Music Director Francesco Corti conducts.
Running time approximately 2 hrs 45 mins
Sung in Italian with English supertitles
"Well-nigh flawless" **** The Guardian
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