“Maria Egiziaca”, an opera by Ottorino Respighi, is set to grace the Teatro Malibran from March 10 to 16, 2024, offering audiences a mesmerizing encounter with this archaic yet profoundly moving work. Premiered in 1932 at Carnegie Hall, the opera, with a libretto penned by Claudio Guastalla, boasts a composition that weaves together echoes of Gregorian chant, Renaissance motifs, and the essence of Monteverdian music.
The storyline revolves around Maria, a prostitute, whose sudden impulse draws her to Jerusalem. In this sacred land, Maria seeks redemption for her past sins and receives a divine message from an angel, urging her to retreat into the desert. There, she dedicates herself to a life of prayer until her final days. The narrative takes a poignant turn when Abbot Zosimus discovers Maria on the verge of death, and with the unexpected help of a lion, he fulfills her last wish by excavating her grave.
The Teatro La Fenice’s new production features a stellar cast: Francesca Dotto embodies the role of Maria, while Dalibor Jenis portrays Abbot Zosimus. Vincenzo Costanzo, Luigi Morassi, and Ilaria Vanacore, among others, contribute their talents to bring this evocative story to life.
Under the baton of conductor Manlio Benzi, the Orchestra and Choir of Teatro La Fenice promise to infuse Respighi’s masterpiece with an ethereal musicality. Pier Luigi Pizzi directs this awe-inspiring production, enthralling audiences with an evocative visual narrative complemented by mesmerizing sets and costumes. Experience the captivating journey of “Maria Egiziaca” as it unfolds its spiritual depth and artistic allure on the stage of Teatro Malibran.
Website: www.teatrolafenice.it
Location: Malibran Theater
Schedule: March 8 – 16, 2024
