From March 28 to April 6, 2025, La Fenice Opera House proudly presents a new production of Gaetano Donizetti’s Anna Bolena, a cornerstone of Italian Romantic opera. Conducted by Renato Balsadonna, with the Teatro La Fenice Orchestra and Chorus under chorus master Alfonso Caiani, this staging breathes new life into Donizetti’s gripping historical drama.
A Revolutionary Work
Premiered in 1830 at Milan’s Teatro Carcano, Anna Bolena marked a turning point in Donizetti’s artistic evolution. Breaking away from the Rossinian tradition, he crafted a deeply psychological and emotionally charged opera. Felice Romani’s libretto, inspired by Marie-Joseph Blaise de Chénier’s Henri VIII, provided Donizetti with the perfect foundation to explore the tragic fate of Anne Boleyn, second wife of Henry VIII. The opera’s final scene, a tour de force of expressive intensity, paved the way for Donizetti’s later triumphs, including Lucia di Lammermoor.
Though Anna Bolena faded from the repertoire for over a century, it was Maria Callas’ legendary 1957 performance at La Scala that revived its status as a bel canto masterpiece.
A Stellar Cast
- Henry VIII – Alex Esposito
- Anna Bolena – Lidia Fridman
- Giovanna Seymour – Carmela Remigio
- Lord Rochefort – William Corrò
- Lord Riccardo Percy – Enea Scala
- Smeton – Manuela Custer
- Sir Hervey – Luigi Morassi
Join an unforgettable night of betrayal, passion, and vocal brilliance, as Anna Bolena returns to Venice!
Website: www.teatrolafenice.it
Location: La Fenice Opera House, Venice
Schedule: March 28 – April 6, 2025
