Music lovers will temporarily swap frigid Minnesota temps for the warmth of sun-drenched Tuscany, thanks to Minnesota Opera's upcoming production, The Elixir of Love. Set in the rolling hills of the Italian countryside, Donizetti's timeless romantic comedy opens tonight, January 24 at the Ordway Music Theater in St. Paul for five performances. In the opera, American soprano Nicole Cabell stars as the beautiful and wealthy Adina, doggedly pursued by the love-struck Nemorino, a handsome but simple peasant sung by Italian American tenor Leonardo Capalbo.
"We're so excited to have these amazingly talented artists performing with us," said Artistic Director Dale Johnson. "Cabell and Capalbo play perfectly off each other musically, as well as romantically. This is Minnesota Opera's first production of The Elixir of Love since 1986 and this new staging set in the early 20th century features elegant costumes and a beautiful set depicting a working Italian pensione (farm)."Directed by Helena Binder and conducted by Leonardo Vordoni, The Elixir of Love is one of the most popular and beloved bel canto operas. Literally "beautiful singing," this Italian bel canto period emphasizes intense emotional expression and showcases exquisite and elaborate vocal technique to tell its stories. "This is not a high-concept production. The innocent storyline between Adina and Nemorino fueled the design," said Stage Director Helena Binder.Boasting the popular tenor aria "Una furtiva lagrima (A furtive tear)," The Elixir of Love has become one of Donizetti's most-performed works. The soprano aria "Prendi, per me sei libero (Take it; through me you are free)," is an excellent example of Donizetti's mature bel canto style with its gorgeous melody sung by Adina when she finally admits her true love for Nemorino.What:
The Elixir of Love by composer Gaetano Donizetti.
Sung in Italian with English translations projected above the stage.
, or purchase online at mnopera.org.
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