François-Andrien Boïeldieu’s opera La Dame Blanche (Lady in White)
• Opera composed: 1825
• Opera’s first performance: the Opera-Comique in Paris on December 10, 1825
• Opera’s libretto by Scribe after Walter Scott's romance, Guy Mannering
• Setting of the Opera: Scottland, 1759
• opera in three acts
• Language: French
Characters from the Boïeldieu’s Opera, La Dame Blanche:
• Gaveston, steward to the late Comte d’Avenel (bass)
• Anna, his ward (soprano)
• George Brown, a young English officer (tenor)
• Dickson, tenant on the estate (tenor)
• Jenny, his wife (soprano)
• Marguerite, old servant of the Comte d’Avenel (soprano)
• Gabriel, Dickson’s employee (bass)
• MacIrton, Justice of the Peace (bass)
The Plot of the Boïeldieu’s opera, Le Dame Blache (Lady in White):
Act I plot summary (Le Dame Blanche)
George Brown, the hero of the opera, a young lieutenant in English service, visits Scotland. He is hospitably received by a tenant of the late Count Avenel, who has been dead for some years. When he arrives, the baptism of the tenant's youngest child is just being celebrated, and seeing that they lack a godfather, he good-naturedly consents to take the vacant place.
Seeing the old castle of the Avenels, he asks for its history, and the young wife Jenny tells him that according to the traditions of the place it is haunted by a ghost, as is the case in almost every old castle. This apparition is called the "White Lady", but unlike other ghosts she is good, protecting her sex against fickle men. All the people around believe firmly in her and pretend to have seen her themselves. In the castle there exists a statue which bears the name of this benevolent genius, and in it the old Lord has hidden treasures. His steward Gaveston, a rogue, who has taken away the only son of the Count in the child's earliest days, brings the castle with all its acres to public sale, hoping to gain it for himself.
He has a charming ward, named Anna. It is she, who sometimes plays the part of the white Lady. She has summoned the young tenant Dickson, who is sincerely devoted to her, into the castle, and the young man though full of fear, yet dare not disobey the ghostly commands. George Brown, thirsting for a good adventure, and disbelieving in the ghost-story, declares that he will go in Dickson's place.
Act II plot summary (Le Dame Blanche)
In the second act George, who has found entrance into the castle, calls for the white Lady, who appears in the shape of Anna. She believes that Dickson is before her and she reveals her secret to him, imploring his help against her false guardian Gaveston, who means to rob the true and only heir of his property. She knows that the missing son of the Avenels is living, and she has given a promise to the dying Countess, to defend his rights against the rapacious Gaveston. George gives his hand to the pretended ghost in token of fidelity, and the warm and soft hand which clasps his, awakes tender feelings in him. On the following morning Dickson and his wife Jenny are full of curiosity about George's visit, but he does not breathe a word of his secret.
The sale of the castle as previously announced is to begin, and Dickson has been empowered beforehand by all the neighboring farmers, to bid the highest price, in order not to let it fall into the hands of the hateful Gaveston. They bid higher and higher, but at length Dickson stops, unable to go farther. Gaveston feels assured of his triumph, when George Brown, recalling his vow to the white Lady, advances boldly, bidding one thousand pounds more. Anna is beside him, in the shape of the spectre, and George obediently bids on, till the castle is his for the price of three hundred thousand pounds. Gaveston in a perfect fury, swears avenge himself on the adventurer, who is to pay the sum in the afternoon. Should he prove unable to do so, he shall be put into prison.
Act III plot summary (Le Dame Blanche)
George, who firmly believes in the help of his genius, is quietly confident, and meanwhile makes an inspection of the castle. Wandering through the vast rooms, dim recollections arise in him, and hearing the minstrel's song of the Avenels, he all at once remembers and finishes the romance, which he heard in his childhood.
The afternoon comes and with it Mac-Irton, the justice of peace. He wants the money, and George begs to await the white Lady, who promised her help. Anna appears, bringing the treasure of the Avenels hidden in the statue, and with them some documents, which prove the just claims of Edwin Count Avenel. This long lost Count she recognizes in George Brown, whose identity with the playmate of her youth she had found out the night before. Gaveston approaches full of wrath to tear aside the ghost's white veil, and sees his own ward, Anna.
The happy owner of castle and country holds firm to the promise which he gave the white Lady, and offers hand and heart to the faithful Anna, who has loved him from her childhood.
****
Annesley, Charles; Standard Operaglass; London, 1911
Saturday, August 22, 2009
The Pearl Fishers (Les Pêcheurs de Perles) Georges Bizet - Opera Plot
Georges Bizet’s opera Les Pêcheurs de Perles (The Pearl Fishers)
• Opera composed: 1863
• Opera’s first performance: the Théâtre-Lyrique in Paris in 1863
• Opera’s libretto by Eugène Cormon and Michel Carré
• Setting of the Opera: Ceylon, which is now Sri Lanka
• opera in three acts
• Language: French
Characters from the Bizet’s Opera, The Pearl Fishers:
• Zurga, King of the pearl fishers (baritone)
• Nadir, childhood friend of Zuriga and a pearl fisher (tenor)
• Leïla, a priestess (soprano)
• Nourabad, high priest (bass)
The Plot of the Bizet’s opera, The Pearl Fishers:
Act I (plot summary)
Zurga is elected as king by the pearl fishers. They all await the arrival of a veiled priestess, who is to protect them. Nadir, Zurga’s childhood friend, arrives. At one time both Zurga and Nadir had been in-love with the same girl, Leïla. They both agree to put aside their past love for Leïla and swear upon their friendship. The priestess arrives and is received by the high priest, Nourabad. She is reminded that she must keep her identity hidden and that she is not to take a lover. Nadir hears her and recognizes her as his love Leïla.
Act II (plot summary)
The pearl fishers return to the beach in Ceylon safely. Leïla tells the high priest a story about a time when she once rescued a man. The man she saved gave her a necklace, which she still has today. Nadir, overhears this story and is convinced this is the girl that he and Zurga used to fight over. Now alone, Leïla senses that Nadir is hear, and when she does see him, their affair is instantly rekindled. She begs him to leave, as she knows that they cannot be caught together. At that moment, Nourabad catches them and identifies Nadir. The fishers all call for both of their deaths. Zurga replies that only he can order them to death. Nourabad rips off Leïla’s veil revealing her identity to all. Zurga, sees that he has been betrayed by Nadir, condemns them both to death by fire.
Act III (plot summary)
That evening, Zurga is having regrets about his decision. When Leïla appears before dawn, he cannot help but reveal his own love for her. She begs him to spare Nadir and only take her life, pleading that their meeting was only by chance. Zurga tells her that he can do no such thing, because she still loves Nadir. She curses him and as the sun is coming up, the time for the execution is announced. As she is ready to die, she reveals her necklace and asks that it be given to her mother after she dies. Zurga recognizes the necklace as the one that he gave her when she rescued him. Leïla and Nadir say their final farewell. Zurga, thinking better of his actions, has lit a fire in the village as a distraction. This fire sends the pearl fishers scattering in fear and allows the lovers to escape, much to the displeasure of Nourabad.
• Opera composed: 1863
• Opera’s first performance: the Théâtre-Lyrique in Paris in 1863
• Opera’s libretto by Eugène Cormon and Michel Carré
• Setting of the Opera: Ceylon, which is now Sri Lanka
• opera in three acts
• Language: French
Characters from the Bizet’s Opera, The Pearl Fishers:
• Zurga, King of the pearl fishers (baritone)
• Nadir, childhood friend of Zuriga and a pearl fisher (tenor)
• Leïla, a priestess (soprano)
• Nourabad, high priest (bass)
The Plot of the Bizet’s opera, The Pearl Fishers:
Act I (plot summary)
Zurga is elected as king by the pearl fishers. They all await the arrival of a veiled priestess, who is to protect them. Nadir, Zurga’s childhood friend, arrives. At one time both Zurga and Nadir had been in-love with the same girl, Leïla. They both agree to put aside their past love for Leïla and swear upon their friendship. The priestess arrives and is received by the high priest, Nourabad. She is reminded that she must keep her identity hidden and that she is not to take a lover. Nadir hears her and recognizes her as his love Leïla.
Act II (plot summary)
The pearl fishers return to the beach in Ceylon safely. Leïla tells the high priest a story about a time when she once rescued a man. The man she saved gave her a necklace, which she still has today. Nadir, overhears this story and is convinced this is the girl that he and Zurga used to fight over. Now alone, Leïla senses that Nadir is hear, and when she does see him, their affair is instantly rekindled. She begs him to leave, as she knows that they cannot be caught together. At that moment, Nourabad catches them and identifies Nadir. The fishers all call for both of their deaths. Zurga replies that only he can order them to death. Nourabad rips off Leïla’s veil revealing her identity to all. Zurga, sees that he has been betrayed by Nadir, condemns them both to death by fire.
Act III (plot summary)
That evening, Zurga is having regrets about his decision. When Leïla appears before dawn, he cannot help but reveal his own love for her. She begs him to spare Nadir and only take her life, pleading that their meeting was only by chance. Zurga tells her that he can do no such thing, because she still loves Nadir. She curses him and as the sun is coming up, the time for the execution is announced. As she is ready to die, she reveals her necklace and asks that it be given to her mother after she dies. Zurga recognizes the necklace as the one that he gave her when she rescued him. Leïla and Nadir say their final farewell. Zurga, thinking better of his actions, has lit a fire in the village as a distraction. This fire sends the pearl fishers scattering in fear and allows the lovers to escape, much to the displeasure of Nourabad.
Carmen, Georges Bizet - Opera Plot Summary
Georges Bizet’s opera Carmen
• Opera composed: 1875
• Opera’s first performance: 1875 at the Opéra-Comique in Paris
• Opera’s libretto by: Henry Meilhac and Ludovic Halévy that is based on the novel by the same name, written by author Prosper Mérimée
• Setting of the Opera: Seville, Spain
• opera in four acts
• Language: French
Characters from the opera Carmen:
•Carmen, a gypsy (mezzo soprano)
•Don José, Corporal of the Dragoons (tenor)
•Escamillo, Toreador/ bullfighter (bass-baritone)
•Micaëla, a village maiden (soprano)
•Zuniga, Captain of the Dragoons (bass)
•Morales, Officer (baritone)
•Frasquita, gypsy companion of Carmen (soprano)
•Mercedes, gypsy companion of Carmen (mezzo soprano)
•El Dancaïro, a smuggler (baritone)
•El Remendado, a smuggler (tenor)
The Plot of the Bizet's Opera Carmen
Act I - In a square outside of a cigarette factory in Seville, Spain, Morales, an officer of the Dragoons, is with his guards on watch. Micaëla, a maiden, arrives looking for her fiancé Don José, but is being bothered by the flirting soldiers, so she flees the square. Don José arrives with his captain, Zuniga to relieve the guard. At noon, the cigarette-girls come out of the factory to the square and Carmen appears. All of the men ask her for her love. She sees José, who at first does not notice her. She throws a flower at the feet of José, choosing him as a lover, and then flees. He is flattered by Carmen’s gesture, but is interrupted from his daydream by Micaëla, who brings a note from his mother reminding him to be faithful. As soon as Micaëla leaves, there is commotion from the factory. Carmen has attacked another woman. Zuniga orders José to arrest her. He goes to arrest her, but she seduces him to let her escape. He does, and is arrested.
Act II - A month later, Carmen and her friends are dancing and drinking at an inn that is a local hangout for smugglers. Zuniga and some of his men are there, and Zuniga attempts to woo Carmen. She refuses. She has promised to meet José there. The great bullfighter, Escamillo, enters the bar and falls in-love with Carmen. Two smugglers, Remendado and Dancaïro, enter the bar to tell Carmen and her gypsy friends, Frasquita and Mercedes, that their help is needed for a smuggling operation. Carmen refuses to go, since she is waiting on José. Having been released from jail, José arrives and the bar empties off all but he and Carmen. She entertains him with a private dance, which is interrupted by the call of bugles. José’s troops have been called to retreat. He is about to leave, which angers Carmen. He reveals the flower that she gave him when they met that he has kept with him in jail this entire time. He pledges his love to her. Zuniga bursts back into the inn and orders José to leave at once. José refuses the order and they both draw swords. They are both disarmed and Zuniga is taken away at gunpoint. José is forced to join the smugglers after openly defying a superior officer.
Act III - The band of smugglers is on the outskirts of town with Don José. He is disinterested in the smugglers and their intentions. Carmen, has tired of José, and she loves him no more. Carmen, along with Frasquita and Mercedes are reading tarot cards. Though Frasquita and Mercedes’ cards show wealth and happiness, Carmen pulls the death card. The smugglers depart, leaving José to guard over the camp. Micaëla approaches. As she comes near, José, who does not see her, he fires a shot in her direction, which is intended for Escamillo, who he has seen. Escamillo arrives and introduces himself as Carmen’s lover. They duel with knives. Carmen steps in and saves Escamillo’s life. They are to leave together, to spite José. Micaëla has come to find José and tell him to return home to his dying mother. He has to leave to go home, but before leaving, warns Carmen that he will be back.
Act IV - A parade is entering the bull-fighting arena through a square in Seville. At the tail of the parade is Escamillo who is joined by Carmen. The other smugglers tell her that she needs to go away because Don José has come to kill her. She does not listen. José pleads with her that he is still in love with her. He offers to rejoin the smugglers. She will have nothing of it, laughing at him, and throwing the ring that he gave her at his feet. She tells José that Escamillo is hers, and that she will live him until death. The crowd roars in the arena for Escamillo. As Carmen goes to join him, the jealous José grabs her from behind and stabs her in the heart. At the moment of Escamillo’s victory inside of the arena, Carmen dies.
• Opera composed: 1875
• Opera’s first performance: 1875 at the Opéra-Comique in Paris
• Opera’s libretto by: Henry Meilhac and Ludovic Halévy that is based on the novel by the same name, written by author Prosper Mérimée
• Setting of the Opera: Seville, Spain
• opera in four acts
• Language: French
Characters from the opera Carmen:
•Carmen, a gypsy (mezzo soprano)
•Don José, Corporal of the Dragoons (tenor)
•Escamillo, Toreador/ bullfighter (bass-baritone)
•Micaëla, a village maiden (soprano)
•Zuniga, Captain of the Dragoons (bass)
•Morales, Officer (baritone)
•Frasquita, gypsy companion of Carmen (soprano)
•Mercedes, gypsy companion of Carmen (mezzo soprano)
•El Dancaïro, a smuggler (baritone)
•El Remendado, a smuggler (tenor)
The Plot of the Bizet's Opera Carmen
Act I - In a square outside of a cigarette factory in Seville, Spain, Morales, an officer of the Dragoons, is with his guards on watch. Micaëla, a maiden, arrives looking for her fiancé Don José, but is being bothered by the flirting soldiers, so she flees the square. Don José arrives with his captain, Zuniga to relieve the guard. At noon, the cigarette-girls come out of the factory to the square and Carmen appears. All of the men ask her for her love. She sees José, who at first does not notice her. She throws a flower at the feet of José, choosing him as a lover, and then flees. He is flattered by Carmen’s gesture, but is interrupted from his daydream by Micaëla, who brings a note from his mother reminding him to be faithful. As soon as Micaëla leaves, there is commotion from the factory. Carmen has attacked another woman. Zuniga orders José to arrest her. He goes to arrest her, but she seduces him to let her escape. He does, and is arrested.
Act II - A month later, Carmen and her friends are dancing and drinking at an inn that is a local hangout for smugglers. Zuniga and some of his men are there, and Zuniga attempts to woo Carmen. She refuses. She has promised to meet José there. The great bullfighter, Escamillo, enters the bar and falls in-love with Carmen. Two smugglers, Remendado and Dancaïro, enter the bar to tell Carmen and her gypsy friends, Frasquita and Mercedes, that their help is needed for a smuggling operation. Carmen refuses to go, since she is waiting on José. Having been released from jail, José arrives and the bar empties off all but he and Carmen. She entertains him with a private dance, which is interrupted by the call of bugles. José’s troops have been called to retreat. He is about to leave, which angers Carmen. He reveals the flower that she gave him when they met that he has kept with him in jail this entire time. He pledges his love to her. Zuniga bursts back into the inn and orders José to leave at once. José refuses the order and they both draw swords. They are both disarmed and Zuniga is taken away at gunpoint. José is forced to join the smugglers after openly defying a superior officer.
Act III - The band of smugglers is on the outskirts of town with Don José. He is disinterested in the smugglers and their intentions. Carmen, has tired of José, and she loves him no more. Carmen, along with Frasquita and Mercedes are reading tarot cards. Though Frasquita and Mercedes’ cards show wealth and happiness, Carmen pulls the death card. The smugglers depart, leaving José to guard over the camp. Micaëla approaches. As she comes near, José, who does not see her, he fires a shot in her direction, which is intended for Escamillo, who he has seen. Escamillo arrives and introduces himself as Carmen’s lover. They duel with knives. Carmen steps in and saves Escamillo’s life. They are to leave together, to spite José. Micaëla has come to find José and tell him to return home to his dying mother. He has to leave to go home, but before leaving, warns Carmen that he will be back.
Act IV - A parade is entering the bull-fighting arena through a square in Seville. At the tail of the parade is Escamillo who is joined by Carmen. The other smugglers tell her that she needs to go away because Don José has come to kill her. She does not listen. José pleads with her that he is still in love with her. He offers to rejoin the smugglers. She will have nothing of it, laughing at him, and throwing the ring that he gave her at his feet. She tells José that Escamillo is hers, and that she will live him until death. The crowd roars in the arena for Escamillo. As Carmen goes to join him, the jealous José grabs her from behind and stabs her in the heart. At the moment of Escamillo’s victory inside of the arena, Carmen dies.
Fidelio, Ludwig van Beethoven - Opera Plot
Ludwig van Beethoven’s opera Fidelio
• Fidelio composed: 1805
• First performance of Fidelio: Theatre An der Wien, Vienna, Nov. 20, 1805
• Libretto: Sonnleithner, translated freely from Bouilly's Léonore, ou l'Amour Conjugal
• Fidelio's setting: 18th century, a fortress near Seville
• Grand opera in two acts
• Language: German
The Main Characters of Fidelio
• Don Fernando, The King’s Minister (bass)
• Don Pizarro, Governor of a State Prison (baritone)
• Florestan, a prisoner , Spanish nobleman (tenor)
• Leonora, his wife, in male attire as Fidelio (soprano)
• Rocco, chief jailer (bass)
• Marcellina, his daughter (soprano)
• Jaquino, Rocco’s assistant (tenor)
• Captain of the guard
The story of Fidelio (plot summary)
Act I of Fidelio
Florestan, a Spanish nobleman, has dared to blame Don Pizarro, the governor of the state-prison, a man as cruel as he is powerful. Pizarro has thus become Florestan's deadly foe, he has seized him secretly and thrown him into a dreadful dungeon, reporting his death to the Minister. But this poor prisoner has a wife, Leonore, who is as courageous as she is faithful. She never believes in the false reports, but disguising herself in male attire, resolves not to rest until she has found her husband.
In this disguise we find her in the first act; she has contrived to get entrance into the fortress where she supposes her husband imprisoned, and by her gentle and courteous behavior, and readiness for service of all kinds has won not only the heart of Rocco, the jailer, but that of his daughter Marcellina, who falls in love with the gentle youth and neglects her former lover Jaquino. Fidelio persuades Rocco to let her help him in his office with the prisoners. Quivering with mingled hope and fear she opens the prison gates, to let the state prisoners out into the court, where they may for once have air and sunshine. But seek as she may, she cannot find her husband and in silent despair she deems herself baffled. Meanwhile Pizarro has received a letter from Sevilla, announcing the Minister's forthcoming visit to the fortress. Pizarro, frightened at the consequences of such a call, resolves to silence Florestan for ever. He orders the jailer to kill him, but the old man will not burden his soul with a murder and refuses firmly. Then Pizarro himself determines to kill Florestan, and summons Rocco to dig a grave in the dungeon, in order to hide all traces of the crime.
Rocco, already looking upon the gentle and diligent Fidelio as his future son-in-law, confides to him his dreadful secret, and with fearful forebodings she entreats him to accept her help in the heavy work. Pizarro gives his permission, Rocco being too old and feeble to do the work quickly enough if alone; Pizarro has been rendered furious by the indulgence granted to the prisoners at Fidelio's entreaty, but a feeling of triumph overcomes every other, when he sees Rocco depart for the dungeon with his assistant.
Act II of Fidelio
Here we find poor Florestan chained to a stone; he is wasted to a skeleton as his food has been reduced in quantity week by week by the cruel orders of his tormentor. He is gradually losing his reason; he has visions and in each one beholds his beloved wife. When Leonore recognizes him, she well-nigh faints, but with a supernatural effort of strength she rallies, and begins her work. She has a piece of bread with her, which she gives to the prisoner and with it the remainder of Rocco's wine. Rocco, mild at heart, pities his victim sincerely, but he dares not act against the orders of his superior, fearing to lose his position, or even his life. While Leonore refreshes the sick man, Rocco gives a sign to Pizarro, that the work is done, and bids Fidelio leave; but she only hides herself behind a stone-pillar, waiting with deadly fear for the coming event and decided to save her husband or to die with him.
Pizarro enters, secretly resolved to kill not only his foe, but also both witnesses of his crime. He will not kill Florestan however without letting him know, who his assailant is. So he loudly shouts his own much-feared name, but while he raises his dagger, Leonore throws herself between him and Florestan, shielding the latter with her breast. Pizarro, stupefied like Florestan, loses his presence of mind. Leonore profits by it and presents a pistol at him, with which she threatens his life, should he attempt another attack. At this critical moment the trumpets sound, announcing the arrival of the Minister, and Pizarro, in impotent wrath is compelled to retreat. They are all summoned before the Minister, who is shocked at seeing his old friend Florestan in this sad state, but not the less delighted with and full of reverence for the noble courage of Leonore.
Pizarro is conducted away in chains, and the faithful wife with her own hands removes the fetters, which still bind the husband for whom she has just won freedom and happiness. Marcellina, feeling inclined to be ashamed of her mistake, returns to her simple and faithful lover Jaquino.
*****
Annesley, Charles; Standard Operaglass; London, 1911
• Fidelio composed: 1805
• First performance of Fidelio: Theatre An der Wien, Vienna, Nov. 20, 1805
• Libretto: Sonnleithner, translated freely from Bouilly's Léonore, ou l'Amour Conjugal
• Fidelio's setting: 18th century, a fortress near Seville
• Grand opera in two acts
• Language: German
The Main Characters of Fidelio
• Don Fernando, The King’s Minister (bass)
• Don Pizarro, Governor of a State Prison (baritone)
• Florestan, a prisoner , Spanish nobleman (tenor)
• Leonora, his wife, in male attire as Fidelio (soprano)
• Rocco, chief jailer (bass)
• Marcellina, his daughter (soprano)
• Jaquino, Rocco’s assistant (tenor)
• Captain of the guard
The story of Fidelio (plot summary)
Act I of Fidelio
Florestan, a Spanish nobleman, has dared to blame Don Pizarro, the governor of the state-prison, a man as cruel as he is powerful. Pizarro has thus become Florestan's deadly foe, he has seized him secretly and thrown him into a dreadful dungeon, reporting his death to the Minister. But this poor prisoner has a wife, Leonore, who is as courageous as she is faithful. She never believes in the false reports, but disguising herself in male attire, resolves not to rest until she has found her husband.
In this disguise we find her in the first act; she has contrived to get entrance into the fortress where she supposes her husband imprisoned, and by her gentle and courteous behavior, and readiness for service of all kinds has won not only the heart of Rocco, the jailer, but that of his daughter Marcellina, who falls in love with the gentle youth and neglects her former lover Jaquino. Fidelio persuades Rocco to let her help him in his office with the prisoners. Quivering with mingled hope and fear she opens the prison gates, to let the state prisoners out into the court, where they may for once have air and sunshine. But seek as she may, she cannot find her husband and in silent despair she deems herself baffled. Meanwhile Pizarro has received a letter from Sevilla, announcing the Minister's forthcoming visit to the fortress. Pizarro, frightened at the consequences of such a call, resolves to silence Florestan for ever. He orders the jailer to kill him, but the old man will not burden his soul with a murder and refuses firmly. Then Pizarro himself determines to kill Florestan, and summons Rocco to dig a grave in the dungeon, in order to hide all traces of the crime.
Rocco, already looking upon the gentle and diligent Fidelio as his future son-in-law, confides to him his dreadful secret, and with fearful forebodings she entreats him to accept her help in the heavy work. Pizarro gives his permission, Rocco being too old and feeble to do the work quickly enough if alone; Pizarro has been rendered furious by the indulgence granted to the prisoners at Fidelio's entreaty, but a feeling of triumph overcomes every other, when he sees Rocco depart for the dungeon with his assistant.
Act II of Fidelio
Here we find poor Florestan chained to a stone; he is wasted to a skeleton as his food has been reduced in quantity week by week by the cruel orders of his tormentor. He is gradually losing his reason; he has visions and in each one beholds his beloved wife. When Leonore recognizes him, she well-nigh faints, but with a supernatural effort of strength she rallies, and begins her work. She has a piece of bread with her, which she gives to the prisoner and with it the remainder of Rocco's wine. Rocco, mild at heart, pities his victim sincerely, but he dares not act against the orders of his superior, fearing to lose his position, or even his life. While Leonore refreshes the sick man, Rocco gives a sign to Pizarro, that the work is done, and bids Fidelio leave; but she only hides herself behind a stone-pillar, waiting with deadly fear for the coming event and decided to save her husband or to die with him.
Pizarro enters, secretly resolved to kill not only his foe, but also both witnesses of his crime. He will not kill Florestan however without letting him know, who his assailant is. So he loudly shouts his own much-feared name, but while he raises his dagger, Leonore throws herself between him and Florestan, shielding the latter with her breast. Pizarro, stupefied like Florestan, loses his presence of mind. Leonore profits by it and presents a pistol at him, with which she threatens his life, should he attempt another attack. At this critical moment the trumpets sound, announcing the arrival of the Minister, and Pizarro, in impotent wrath is compelled to retreat. They are all summoned before the Minister, who is shocked at seeing his old friend Florestan in this sad state, but not the less delighted with and full of reverence for the noble courage of Leonore.
Pizarro is conducted away in chains, and the faithful wife with her own hands removes the fetters, which still bind the husband for whom she has just won freedom and happiness. Marcellina, feeling inclined to be ashamed of her mistake, returns to her simple and faithful lover Jaquino.
*****
Annesley, Charles; Standard Operaglass; London, 1911
The Bohemian Girl, Michael William Balfe – Opera Plot
Michael William Balfe’s opera The Bohemian Girl
• The Bohemian Girl composed: 1843
• The Bohemian Girl’s first performance: London, Nov. 27, 1843, at Drury Lane
• The Bohemian Girl’s libretto: words by Bunn, adapted from St. George's ballet of The Gypsy, taken from a romance by Cervantes
• The Bohemian Girl’ s setting: Austria
• Grand opera in three acts
• Language: English
The Main Characters of The Bohemian Girl
• Arline, the Count’s daughter (soprano)
• Thaddeus, a proscribed Pole (tenor)
• Gypsy Queen (alto)
• Devilshoof, chief of the Gypsies (bass)
• Count Arnheim, Governor of Presburg (bass)
• Florestein, the Count’s nephew (tenor)
• Buda, Arline’s attendant (soprano)
The story of The Bohemian Girl (plot summary)
Act I of The Bohemian Girl
At the château on the grounds of Count Arnheim, Governor of Presburg, whose retainers are preparing for the hunt. The Count enters with his little daughter Arline and his nephew Florestein. Thaddeus, a Polish exile and fugitive, rushes in excitedly, seeking to escape the Austrian soldiers. A troop of gypsies enter, headed by Devilshoof. Devilshoof hears Thaddeus's story and persuades him to join the gypsies.
Florestein and some of the hunters dash across the grounds in quest of Arline, who has been attacked by a stag. Thaddeus, seizing a rifle, joins them, and rescues the child by killing the animal. The Count overwhelms him with gratitude, and urges him to join in the coming festivities. He consents, and at the banquet produces a commotion by refusing to drink the health of the Emperor. The soldiers are about to rush upon him, when Devilshoof interferes. The gypsy is arrested, and taken into the castle. Thaddeus departs and the festivities are resumed, but are quickly interrupted again by the escape of Devilshoof, who takes Arline with him.
Act II of The Bohemian Girl
Twelve years later. The Count Arnheim has heard nothing from Arline, and has given her up as lost forever. The act opens in the gypsy camp in the suburbs of Presburg. Arline is seen asleep in the tent of the Queen, withThaddeus watching her. They depart in quest of plunder, headed by Devilshoof, and soon find their victim in the person of the foppish and half-drunken Florestein, who is returning
from an evening on the town. They speedily steal his jewelry, among which is a medallion, which is carried off by Devilshoof. As the gypsies disappear, Arline wakes and tells Thaddeus about her dream. Thaddeus tells her the meaning of the scar upon her arm, and reveals himself as her rescuer, but does not disclose to her the mystery of her birth. Thaddeus declares his love for her just as the Queen, who is also in love with Thaddeus, enters. Arline also confesses her love for Thaddeus, and, according to the customs of the tribe, the Queen unites them, at the same time vowing vengeance against the pair.
The scene now changes to a street in the city. A great fair is in progress, and the gypsies are there. Arline enters with the gypsies. They disappear down the street and reappear in the public plaza. Arline, the Queen, Devilshoof, and Thaddeus mingle among the people. An altercation occurs between Arline and Florestein, who has attempted to insult her. The Queen recognizes Florestein as the owner of the medallion, and for her courage in resenting the insult maliciously gives it to Arlin. Shortly afterwards, Florestein sees the medallion on Arline's neck, and has her arrested for theft. The next scene opens in the hall of justice. Count Arnheim enters sadly, as he observes Arline's portrait. Arline is brought before him for trial. As the trial progresses the Count observes the scar upon her arm and asks its cause. She tells the story which Thaddeus had told her, and this solves the mystery. The Count recognizes his daughter.
Act III of The Bohemian Girl
In the salon of Count Arnheim, Arline has been restored to her old position, but she is still in love with Thaddeus. Thaddeus sneaks in to meet with her, with the help of Devilshoof, who accompanies him. He tells her that he still loves her, and she promises to be faithful to him. As the sound of approaching steps is heard, Thaddeus and Devilshoof hide. A large group enters, and Arline is presented to them. During the ceremony a closely veiled woman appears. When questioned, she presents herself as the Gypsy Queen. She reveals the hiding-place of her companions, and Thaddeus is dragged forth and ordered to leave the house. Arline declares her love for him, and her intention to go with him. She begs her father. Thaddeus tell the Count of his noble descent, and boasts his ancestry and deeds in battle. The Count finally lets Arline be with Thaddeus. The Queen, filled with rage and despair, has one of the aims to shoot a gun at Thaddeus as he is embracing Arline; but bullet ricochets and instead hits the Queen, killing her. As the curtain falls, the old song of the gypsies is heard again as they disappear in the distance with Devilshoof leading the way.
• The Bohemian Girl composed: 1843
• The Bohemian Girl’s first performance: London, Nov. 27, 1843, at Drury Lane
• The Bohemian Girl’s libretto: words by Bunn, adapted from St. George's ballet of The Gypsy, taken from a romance by Cervantes
• The Bohemian Girl’ s setting: Austria
• Grand opera in three acts
• Language: English
The Main Characters of The Bohemian Girl
• Arline, the Count’s daughter (soprano)
• Thaddeus, a proscribed Pole (tenor)
• Gypsy Queen (alto)
• Devilshoof, chief of the Gypsies (bass)
• Count Arnheim, Governor of Presburg (bass)
• Florestein, the Count’s nephew (tenor)
• Buda, Arline’s attendant (soprano)
The story of The Bohemian Girl (plot summary)
Act I of The Bohemian Girl
At the château on the grounds of Count Arnheim, Governor of Presburg, whose retainers are preparing for the hunt. The Count enters with his little daughter Arline and his nephew Florestein. Thaddeus, a Polish exile and fugitive, rushes in excitedly, seeking to escape the Austrian soldiers. A troop of gypsies enter, headed by Devilshoof. Devilshoof hears Thaddeus's story and persuades him to join the gypsies.
Florestein and some of the hunters dash across the grounds in quest of Arline, who has been attacked by a stag. Thaddeus, seizing a rifle, joins them, and rescues the child by killing the animal. The Count overwhelms him with gratitude, and urges him to join in the coming festivities. He consents, and at the banquet produces a commotion by refusing to drink the health of the Emperor. The soldiers are about to rush upon him, when Devilshoof interferes. The gypsy is arrested, and taken into the castle. Thaddeus departs and the festivities are resumed, but are quickly interrupted again by the escape of Devilshoof, who takes Arline with him.
Act II of The Bohemian Girl
Twelve years later. The Count Arnheim has heard nothing from Arline, and has given her up as lost forever. The act opens in the gypsy camp in the suburbs of Presburg. Arline is seen asleep in the tent of the Queen, withThaddeus watching her. They depart in quest of plunder, headed by Devilshoof, and soon find their victim in the person of the foppish and half-drunken Florestein, who is returning
from an evening on the town. They speedily steal his jewelry, among which is a medallion, which is carried off by Devilshoof. As the gypsies disappear, Arline wakes and tells Thaddeus about her dream. Thaddeus tells her the meaning of the scar upon her arm, and reveals himself as her rescuer, but does not disclose to her the mystery of her birth. Thaddeus declares his love for her just as the Queen, who is also in love with Thaddeus, enters. Arline also confesses her love for Thaddeus, and, according to the customs of the tribe, the Queen unites them, at the same time vowing vengeance against the pair.
The scene now changes to a street in the city. A great fair is in progress, and the gypsies are there. Arline enters with the gypsies. They disappear down the street and reappear in the public plaza. Arline, the Queen, Devilshoof, and Thaddeus mingle among the people. An altercation occurs between Arline and Florestein, who has attempted to insult her. The Queen recognizes Florestein as the owner of the medallion, and for her courage in resenting the insult maliciously gives it to Arlin. Shortly afterwards, Florestein sees the medallion on Arline's neck, and has her arrested for theft. The next scene opens in the hall of justice. Count Arnheim enters sadly, as he observes Arline's portrait. Arline is brought before him for trial. As the trial progresses the Count observes the scar upon her arm and asks its cause. She tells the story which Thaddeus had told her, and this solves the mystery. The Count recognizes his daughter.
Act III of The Bohemian Girl
In the salon of Count Arnheim, Arline has been restored to her old position, but she is still in love with Thaddeus. Thaddeus sneaks in to meet with her, with the help of Devilshoof, who accompanies him. He tells her that he still loves her, and she promises to be faithful to him. As the sound of approaching steps is heard, Thaddeus and Devilshoof hide. A large group enters, and Arline is presented to them. During the ceremony a closely veiled woman appears. When questioned, she presents herself as the Gypsy Queen. She reveals the hiding-place of her companions, and Thaddeus is dragged forth and ordered to leave the house. Arline declares her love for him, and her intention to go with him. She begs her father. Thaddeus tell the Count of his noble descent, and boasts his ancestry and deeds in battle. The Count finally lets Arline be with Thaddeus. The Queen, filled with rage and despair, has one of the aims to shoot a gun at Thaddeus as he is embracing Arline; but bullet ricochets and instead hits the Queen, killing her. As the curtain falls, the old song of the gypsies is heard again as they disappear in the distance with Devilshoof leading the way.
Fra Diavolo, Daniel François Auber – Opera Plot
Daniel François Auber’s French, opera comique, Fra Diavolo
• Fra Diavolo composed: 1829
• Fra Diavolo’s first performance: Opera Comique, Paris, Jan. 28, 1830
• Fra Diavolo’s libretto: Eugène Scribe, based on Leseur’s opera la Caverne
• Fra Diavolo’s setting: Naples, Italy; 18th Century
• opera comique, in three acts
• Language: French
The Main Characters of Fra Diavolo
• Zerlina, daughter of Matteo (soprano)
• Fra Diavolo (tenor)
• Lord Cockburn, an English nobleman (tenor)
• Lady Pamela, his wife (mezzo soprano)
• Beppo, a bandit (tenor)
• Giacomo, a bandit (bass)
• Matteo, an innkeeper (bass)
• Lorenzo, a young soldier (in love with Zerlina) (tenor)
The story of Fra Diavolo
Act I of Fra Diavolo
The bandit, Fra Diavolo, encounters an English nobleman and his pretty and susceptible wife, Lord Cockburn and Lady Pamela. They are at the inn of Terracina, kept by Matteo, whose daughter Zerlina is loved by Lorenzo, a young soldier. There is a search party looking to capture Fra Diavolo, as the opera begins. In the first scene the English couple enter in great alarm, having narrowly escaped the robbery of all their valuables by Fra Diavolo's band. The bandit himself, who has followed them on their journey disguised as a marquis, has been particularly attentive to the lady, enters the inn just as Lord Cockburn has been scolding his wife for the attention she has given a stranger. They argue. Fra Diavolo enters, and learns the trick by which the Lord and Lady saved the most of their valuables. Diavolo, enraged at thefailure of his band, lays his own plan to secure the valuables himself. While Diavolo speaks with Zerlina, she, mistaking him for the Marquis, tells him the story of Fra Diavolo. To further his scheme, Fra Diavolo seduces Lady Pamela by serenading her. The Lord interrupts the serenade. Fra Diavolo eludes the search party, who have returned, and they resume their search for him. Diavolo escapes, leaving him to perfect his plans for the robbery.
Act II of Fra Diavolo
Zerlina is in her chamber about to retire. She leads the Lord and Lady Allcash to their room. Before Zerlina returns to her chamber, Fra Diavolo and his companions, Beppo and Giacomo, hide in a closet, and Fra Diavolo sings a beautiful serenade, which had been agreed upon as a signal to his comrades that the coast was clear. Zerlina enters says a prayer and retires to
sleep. The robbers, in attempting to cross her room, partially awake her. One of them rushes to the bed to stab her, but falls back awe-stricken as she murmurs her prayer and sinks to rest again. The noise of the carbineers returning outside interrupts the plan of the robbers. They hide in the closet again. Zerlina rises and dresses herself. The Lord and Lady rush in to find out the cause of the commotion. Lorenzo enters to greet Zerlina, when a sudden noise in the closet disturbs the company. Fra Diavolo, knowing he will be detected, boldly steps out into the room and declares that he is there to keep an appointment with Zerlina. Lorenzo challenges Diavolo. Diavolo promises to give him satisfaction in the morning, and escapes. One of his comrades, however, is captured, and to secure his own liberty agrees to betray Diavolo.
Act III of Fra Diavolo
Fra Diavolo once more among his native mountains. He exults in his liberty, and gleefully looks forward to a meeting with the Lord and Lady which he anticipates great personal profit. His exultation is interrupted by the entrance of the villagers dressed in festival attire in honor of the approaching wedding ceremonies. Lorenzo, Beppo, and Giacomo, have developed a scheme to ensnare Fra Diavolo and compass his death. Lorenzo declares Zerlina's innocence Fra Diavolo meets his doom at the hands of the carbineers,.
• Fra Diavolo composed: 1829
• Fra Diavolo’s first performance: Opera Comique, Paris, Jan. 28, 1830
• Fra Diavolo’s libretto: Eugène Scribe, based on Leseur’s opera la Caverne
• Fra Diavolo’s setting: Naples, Italy; 18th Century
• opera comique, in three acts
• Language: French
The Main Characters of Fra Diavolo
• Zerlina, daughter of Matteo (soprano)
• Fra Diavolo (tenor)
• Lord Cockburn, an English nobleman (tenor)
• Lady Pamela, his wife (mezzo soprano)
• Beppo, a bandit (tenor)
• Giacomo, a bandit (bass)
• Matteo, an innkeeper (bass)
• Lorenzo, a young soldier (in love with Zerlina) (tenor)
The story of Fra Diavolo
Act I of Fra Diavolo
The bandit, Fra Diavolo, encounters an English nobleman and his pretty and susceptible wife, Lord Cockburn and Lady Pamela. They are at the inn of Terracina, kept by Matteo, whose daughter Zerlina is loved by Lorenzo, a young soldier. There is a search party looking to capture Fra Diavolo, as the opera begins. In the first scene the English couple enter in great alarm, having narrowly escaped the robbery of all their valuables by Fra Diavolo's band. The bandit himself, who has followed them on their journey disguised as a marquis, has been particularly attentive to the lady, enters the inn just as Lord Cockburn has been scolding his wife for the attention she has given a stranger. They argue. Fra Diavolo enters, and learns the trick by which the Lord and Lady saved the most of their valuables. Diavolo, enraged at thefailure of his band, lays his own plan to secure the valuables himself. While Diavolo speaks with Zerlina, she, mistaking him for the Marquis, tells him the story of Fra Diavolo. To further his scheme, Fra Diavolo seduces Lady Pamela by serenading her. The Lord interrupts the serenade. Fra Diavolo eludes the search party, who have returned, and they resume their search for him. Diavolo escapes, leaving him to perfect his plans for the robbery.
Act II of Fra Diavolo
Zerlina is in her chamber about to retire. She leads the Lord and Lady Allcash to their room. Before Zerlina returns to her chamber, Fra Diavolo and his companions, Beppo and Giacomo, hide in a closet, and Fra Diavolo sings a beautiful serenade, which had been agreed upon as a signal to his comrades that the coast was clear. Zerlina enters says a prayer and retires to
sleep. The robbers, in attempting to cross her room, partially awake her. One of them rushes to the bed to stab her, but falls back awe-stricken as she murmurs her prayer and sinks to rest again. The noise of the carbineers returning outside interrupts the plan of the robbers. They hide in the closet again. Zerlina rises and dresses herself. The Lord and Lady rush in to find out the cause of the commotion. Lorenzo enters to greet Zerlina, when a sudden noise in the closet disturbs the company. Fra Diavolo, knowing he will be detected, boldly steps out into the room and declares that he is there to keep an appointment with Zerlina. Lorenzo challenges Diavolo. Diavolo promises to give him satisfaction in the morning, and escapes. One of his comrades, however, is captured, and to secure his own liberty agrees to betray Diavolo.
Act III of Fra Diavolo
Fra Diavolo once more among his native mountains. He exults in his liberty, and gleefully looks forward to a meeting with the Lord and Lady which he anticipates great personal profit. His exultation is interrupted by the entrance of the villagers dressed in festival attire in honor of the approaching wedding ceremonies. Lorenzo, Beppo, and Giacomo, have developed a scheme to ensnare Fra Diavolo and compass his death. Lorenzo declares Zerlina's innocence Fra Diavolo meets his doom at the hands of the carbineers,.
La Sonnambula - Vincenzo Bellini Opera Plot
Vincenzo Bellini's Italian,
bel canto opera La Sonnambula (The Sleepwalker)
- La Sonnambula composed: 1831
- La Sonnambula's first performance: March 6, 1831; Teatro Carcano, Milan (Italy)
- La Sonnambula's libretto: Felice Romani, based on Scribe's scenario for the ballet La somnambule, ou L'arrivée d'un nouveau seigneur
- La Sonnambula's setting: A Swiss village
- Italian drama in two acts
The Main Characters in La Sonnambula (The Sleepwalker)
- Amina, an orphan peasant girl with a sleepwalking problem(soprano)
- Elvino, Amina's husband-to-be (tenor)
- Count Rodolfo, a flirtatious feudal lord (bass)
- Teresa, Amina's foster mother (mezzo-soprano)
- Lisa, Owner of the inn (soprano)
- Alessio, Lisa's suitor (bass)
The story of Bellini's opera
La Sonnambula (The Sleepwalker)
plot summary
Act I of La Sonnambula:
In a Swiss village, they are celebrating the wedding of the orphan Amina (who was raised by Teresa) to the rich Elvino. The marriage contract is signed and rings are exchanged. Count Rodolfo arrives to stay at the inn. When he sees Amina, he begins to flirt with her (annoying Elvino) Teresa sends everyone away for the evening. Lisa (jealous of Amina's wedding to Elvino) is the owner of the inn. She recognizes the Count and the two also begin to flirt. Suddenly, Amina comes through the window. Lisa, because of her jealously toward Amina, thinks that she is there to see the Count and runs off to tell Elvino of his wife's infidelity. Rodolfo sees that Amina is actually sleepwalking. He allows her to lie down and sleep on his bed in his room. Lisa and Elvino burst in, and as Elvino sees his wife in another man's bed, he calls off the wedding.
Act II of La Sonnambula:
The people of the village rally behind Amina. She decides that she needs the Count's help to verify her sleepwalking and help her prove her innocence. As she is on her way to Count Rodolfo's, Amina runs into Elvino. Before she can get Rodolfo 's help, Elvino angrily takes the ring he gave her off of Amina's hand. Elvino has decided to marry Lisa instead. Rodolfo arrives and attempts to explain Amina's sleepwalking, but Elvino is not convinced. Later a crowd sees Almina sleepwalking across an unstable a the mill. She safely reaches the ground, lowers to her knees and begins to pray for Elvino. Elvino realizes that he was wrong and places the wedding ring back on Almina's finger. When she reawakens, the crowd is surrounding the happy couple . Rejoicing, the two head straight for the altar to be wed.
Norma - Vincenzo Bellini Opera Plot
Vincenzo Bellini's Italian, bel canto opera Norma
Norma composed: 1831
Norma
first performance: December 26, 1831; La Scala, Milan (Italy)
Norma's libretto: Felice Romani, based on Alexandre Soumet's tragedy Norma
Norma's setting: Roman occupied Gaul, about 50 BC
Tragedia lirica in 2 acts (Lyric tragedy)
The Main Characters in
Bellini's Norma
- Norma, a Druid high priestess (soprano)
- Pollione, Roman pro-consul, father of Norma's 2 sons (tenor)
- Oroveso, Norma's father, Archdruid (bass)
- Clotilde, Norma's attendant (soprano)
- Adalgisa, a druid priestess, virgin (soprano)
- Flavio, a Roman centurion (tenor)
- Two children of Norma and Pollione, (mute)
The Story of Vincenzo Bellini's opera Norma (a plot summary)
Act I, Norma:
In the sacred grove of the Druids, Oroveso, the high priest, is praying to the gods to aid the Druids in overthrowing the Romans. Pollione (the Roman pro-consul in Gaul) tells the centurion, Flavio, that he no longer loves Norma. (the Druid high priestess and mother of his two children) He also tells Flavio that he is now in love with Adalgisa. (another priestess) Norma is unaware of Pollione's infidelity. Pollione begs Adalgisa to leave with him to Rome. Norma realizes that Pollione is going to leave her, but she does not know with whom it will be. Adalgisa comes to Norma (her superior) to confess that she has not been faithful to her vows as priestess and that she is in love with a Roman. Pollione appears and now Norma understands who Adalgisa's lover is. Adalgisa, who loves the high priestess too much to betray her, is shocked to learn that Pollione was planning to abandon Norma.
Act II, Norma:
Norma considers murdering her own children. She then decides to give them to Adalgisa to care for. Adalgisa tells Norma that she no longer loves Pollione and that she promises to convince him to return to Norma. Adalgisa fails to convince Pollione. Norma hearing this news in enraged. She goes to the Druids, and in calling them together proclaims war against the Romans. The Druids now need a sacrifice. Pollione is captured trying to enter the temple of the virgins to claim Adalgisa. The penalty for this is death. Norma is now in deep sadness. Revealing that she has had children by Pollione, she gives them to her father to care for. Norma orders the Pyre lit and she decides that she will take Pollione's place in the sacrifice. Pollione, seeing this act of selflessness, decides to join Norma on the pyre, proclaiming his re-kindled love for her. Norma and Pollione are to join each other in death.
I Capuleti e i Montecchi - Vincenzo Bellini Opera Plot
Vincenzo Bellini's Italian, bel canto opera I Capuleti e i Montecchi (The Capulets and the Montagues)
Bellini's setting of Romeo and Juliet
I Capuleti composed: 1830
I Capuleti's
first performance: March 11, 1830; La Fenice, Venice (Italy)
I Capuleti's libretto:
Felice Romani, based on a novella by Bandello and a play by Luigi Scola.
I Capuleti's setting: Verona, Italy 13th century
Tragedia lirica in 2 acts (lyric tragedy)
The Main Characters in I Capuleti e i Montecchi (The Capulets and the Montagues)
- Capellio, head of the Capuleti clan (bass)
Giulietta, Juliet, Capellio's daughter (soprano)
Romeo, head of the Montecchi clan, Giulietta's lover (mezzo-soprano)- Tebaldo, Giulietta's husband-to-be (tenor)
Lorenzo, Capellio's advisor, friend of Romeo's (baritone)
The Story of Vincenzo Bellini's opera I Capuleti e i Montecchi (The Capulets and the Montagues)
(The Puritans) (a plot summary)
Act I, I Capuleti e i Montecchi:
Capellio vows to kill Romeo, ignoring the advice of Lorenzo, who recommends peace between the two families, especially between he and the Montecchi leader. Romeo, disguised as a Montecchi messenger, arrives and proposes to Capellio that the two families should peacefully reconcile their differences. He further recommends that they could do this by allowing Romeo to marry Capellio's daughter, Giulietta. Capellio decides that Giulietta should marry Tebaldo immediately. Giulietta is unhappy, but understands that she must marry Tebaldo. Romeo and Lorenzo arrive and Romeo tries to convince Giulietta to run off with him. She refuses because she is afraid of dishonoring the family name. As the wedding is about to occur, Romeo arrives dressed as a Capulet. He pleads with Giulietta, and as he does is unmasked, revealing his identity as a Montecchi. This causes a fight.
Act II, I Capuleti e i Montecchi:
Lorenzo tells Giulietta that Romeo has safely escaped. He recommends a plan to get out of her marriage and be reunited with Romeo. She should drink a sleeping potion that will make her appear dead. After she is placed in the Capuleti family tomb, Romeo will arrive to wake her. When her father arrives, Giulietta drinks the potion. She pleads with her father for forgiveness. Lorenzo is arrested, never getting the word to Romeo about the plan. Romeo, hearing nothing from Giulietta, decides to head for the palace. In-route, he runs into Tebaldo and they duel. During the fight, they hear a choir in the distance singing of Giulietta's death. Romeo enters the tomb and sees Giulietta's body. He takes poison. Giulietta awakens to see her Romeo dieing. She kills herself. Lorenzo rushes in, trying to avoid a tragedy, but arrives only to find the two lovers dead.
Il Puritani - Vincenzo Bellini Opera Plot
Vincenzo Bellini's Italian, bel canto opera I Puritani (The Puritans)
I Puritani, Act I plot summary
During the English Civil War in Plymouth, England, the widow of Charles I, Queen Enrichetta, (Henrietta) is being held prisoner in Lord Walton of Cromwell's fortress. She has been sentenced to death. Elvira, the daughter of Lord Walton, is in love with Lord Arthur (Arturo) Talbot and the two wish to be married. Sir Richard (Riccardo) secretly loves Elvira, with whom her father has promised her hand in marriage. Arthur (who is loyal to the Stuarts) helps Henrietta escape the castle by draping Elvira's bridal veil over her head, and sneaking her out of the castle. When Elvira finds her veil missing and hears that Arthur was seen leaving with another woman, she feels as if her lover has betrayed her. This drives Elvira raving mad. Seeing Elvira in this state, the guests at the wedding want Arthur's head.
I Puritani, Act II plot summary
Lord Walton's brother, George, (Giorgio) hears the news of Elvira's madness. Richard enters and tells George of Parliament's death sentence order for Arthur. Elvira arrives, singing of her lost love. George persuades Richard to try and find Arthur so that they may reunite him with Elvira in hopes of saving her life, rather than allowing the madness to drive her to death. Richard agrees, but swears that if Arthur turns up in tomorrow's battle they will avenge the pain caused Elvira.
I Puritani, Act III plot summary
(In a grove) Arthur, aware of the danger, seeks to be reunited with Elvira. She is overjoyed to see him, but when she embraces him, she madly cries out, afraid that he will leave her again. Men, searching nearby, hear Elvira's screams and capture Arthur. As Arthur is about to be executed, a messenger arrives reporting that the Stuarts have been defeated and that all prisoners have been pardoned. Arthur is freed and the shock of the joyous situation "cures" Elvira. The couple is reunited and now free to marry.
- I Puritani composed: 1834-35
- I Puritani's
- first performance: January 25, 1835; Théâtre des Italiens, Paris (France)
- I Puritani's libretto: Carlo Pepoli based an a novel by Sir Walter Scott
- I Puritani's setting: Near Plymouth, England; English Civil War
- Opera in 3 acts
The Main Characters in I Puritani (the Puritans)
- Lord Walton, of the Puritans (bass)
- Sir George Walton, Giorgio, Lord Walton's brother (bass)
- Lord Arthur Talbot, Arturo, of the Cavaliers (tenor)
- Sir Richard Forth, Riccardo, of the Puritans (baritone)
- Sir Benno Robertson, of the Puritans (tenor)
- Queen Henrietta, Enrichetta, widow of Charles I (soprano)
- Elvira, daughter of Lord Walton (soprano)
The Story of Vincenzo Bellini's Italian, bel canto opera I Puritani
I Puritani, Act I plot summary
During the English Civil War in Plymouth, England, the widow of Charles I, Queen Enrichetta, (Henrietta) is being held prisoner in Lord Walton of Cromwell's fortress. She has been sentenced to death. Elvira, the daughter of Lord Walton, is in love with Lord Arthur (Arturo) Talbot and the two wish to be married. Sir Richard (Riccardo) secretly loves Elvira, with whom her father has promised her hand in marriage. Arthur (who is loyal to the Stuarts) helps Henrietta escape the castle by draping Elvira's bridal veil over her head, and sneaking her out of the castle. When Elvira finds her veil missing and hears that Arthur was seen leaving with another woman, she feels as if her lover has betrayed her. This drives Elvira raving mad. Seeing Elvira in this state, the guests at the wedding want Arthur's head.
I Puritani, Act II plot summary
Lord Walton's brother, George, (Giorgio) hears the news of Elvira's madness. Richard enters and tells George of Parliament's death sentence order for Arthur. Elvira arrives, singing of her lost love. George persuades Richard to try and find Arthur so that they may reunite him with Elvira in hopes of saving her life, rather than allowing the madness to drive her to death. Richard agrees, but swears that if Arthur turns up in tomorrow's battle they will avenge the pain caused Elvira.
I Puritani, Act III plot summary
(In a grove) Arthur, aware of the danger, seeks to be reunited with Elvira. She is overjoyed to see him, but when she embraces him, she madly cries out, afraid that he will leave her again. Men, searching nearby, hear Elvira's screams and capture Arthur. As Arthur is about to be executed, a messenger arrives reporting that the Stuarts have been defeated and that all prisoners have been pardoned. Arthur is freed and the shock of the joyous situation "cures" Elvira. The couple is reunited and now free to marry.
Il Pirata - Vincenzo Bellini Opera Plot
Vincenzo Bellini's Italian, bel canto opera Il Pirata (The Pirates)
I Pirata composed: 1827
I Pirata's first performance: October 27, 1827; La Scala, Milan (Italy)
I Pirata's libretto: Felice Romani, based on Charles Robert Maturin's play: Bertram, or the Castle of Saint Aldobrand
I Pirata's setting: Sicily, Italy 13th century
Melodrama (opera seria) in 2 acts (dramatic, serious opera)
The Main Characters in I Pirata (the Pirates)
The Story of Vincenzo Bellini's Italian, bel canto opera I Pirata (The Pirates)
Act I, I Pirata: (plot summary)
Gualtiero, the former Count of Montalto, has been living his life as a pirate after being banished. After his boat had wrecked, he comes ashore and is welcomed in by his former tutor, Goffredo. Gualtiero tells Goffredo that his love for Imogene was the only thing that has kept him alive all of these days. Imogene arrives, having learned that the pirates had been defeated. She comes to the shore to give the survivors food and water. She speaks of a dream that she had where her lover had died. Gualtiero sees her from a distance and recognizes her. The two are reunited outside of the castle. She tells him that she was forced to marry Ernesto, the Duke of Caldora and Gualtiero's bitter rival. Imogene insists that she married Ernesto as a way to save her father, whose safety was threatened by Ernesto. Gualtiero is jealous of Ernesto, but asks Imogene to meet him outside of the country. She pleads with him to leave her. She faints.
Act II, I Pirata: (plot summary)
As Imogene rests, Ernesto senses that she is upset. He insists that she still loves Gualtiero. Imogene tells Ernesto that she did not hide her love for Gualtiero when she and Ernesto were married. She also knows that she still loves him even though he is clearly dead now. Ernesto learns that Gualtiero is actually still alive and has landed in town. He gives orders for his arrest. Imogene sees Gualtiero and pleads with him to leave for his safety, but Ernesto finds the two lovers together. The two men fight a fierce duel, leaving Ernesto dead at the hands of Gualtiero. Gualtiero then surrenders to Ernesto's men. Imogene appears weeping, and unstable. The council condemns Gualtiero and sentences him to death. Imogene sees the image of the scaffold, goes mad, and dies.
I Pirata composed: 1827
I Pirata's first performance: October 27, 1827; La Scala, Milan (Italy)
I Pirata's libretto: Felice Romani, based on Charles Robert Maturin's play: Bertram, or the Castle of Saint Aldobrand
I Pirata's setting: Sicily, Italy 13th century
Melodrama (opera seria) in 2 acts (dramatic, serious opera)
The Main Characters in I Pirata (the Pirates)
- Ernesto, Duke of Caldora (bass)
- Imogene, Ernesto's wife, Gualtiero's former lover (soprano)
- Gualtiero, Exiled Count of Montalto, now a pirate (tenor)
- Goffredo (Solitario), a hermit, Gualtiero's former tutor (bass)
The Story of Vincenzo Bellini's Italian, bel canto opera I Pirata (The Pirates)
Act I, I Pirata: (plot summary)
Gualtiero, the former Count of Montalto, has been living his life as a pirate after being banished. After his boat had wrecked, he comes ashore and is welcomed in by his former tutor, Goffredo. Gualtiero tells Goffredo that his love for Imogene was the only thing that has kept him alive all of these days. Imogene arrives, having learned that the pirates had been defeated. She comes to the shore to give the survivors food and water. She speaks of a dream that she had where her lover had died. Gualtiero sees her from a distance and recognizes her. The two are reunited outside of the castle. She tells him that she was forced to marry Ernesto, the Duke of Caldora and Gualtiero's bitter rival. Imogene insists that she married Ernesto as a way to save her father, whose safety was threatened by Ernesto. Gualtiero is jealous of Ernesto, but asks Imogene to meet him outside of the country. She pleads with him to leave her. She faints.
Act II, I Pirata: (plot summary)
As Imogene rests, Ernesto senses that she is upset. He insists that she still loves Gualtiero. Imogene tells Ernesto that she did not hide her love for Gualtiero when she and Ernesto were married. She also knows that she still loves him even though he is clearly dead now. Ernesto learns that Gualtiero is actually still alive and has landed in town. He gives orders for his arrest. Imogene sees Gualtiero and pleads with him to leave for his safety, but Ernesto finds the two lovers together. The two men fight a fierce duel, leaving Ernesto dead at the hands of Gualtiero. Gualtiero then surrenders to Ernesto's men. Imogene appears weeping, and unstable. The council condemns Gualtiero and sentences him to death. Imogene sees the image of the scaffold, goes mad, and dies.
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