From August 30 to September 18, 2024, La Fenice Opera House will present Giacomo Puccini’s “Turandot,” a lyric drama in three acts with a libretto by Giuseppe Adami and Renato Simoni. This masterpiece, Puccini’s final opera, remained unfinished at his death in 1924. Franco Alfano, using Puccini’s sketches, completed the opera, and his version has since become a staple in the operatic repertoire.
“Turandot” is renowned for its epic choral scenes and unforgettable lyrical moments, including the iconic aria “Nessun dorma,” which has become one of the most famous tenor arias of all time. The opera blends rich oriental color with modernist musical elements, fitting squarely within the grand tradition of Italian opera. As scholar Michele Girardi suggests, “Turandot” might be considered the last masterpiece of Italian opera, marking both the end of an era and a hint towards an unfulfilled future.
The La Fenice Theater production features an outstanding cast, including Maria Josè Siri as Turandot, Michele Pertusi as Timur, Roberto Aronica as Calaf, and Selene Zanetti as Liù. Supporting roles include Simone Alberghini as Ping, Paolo Antognetti as Pong, Valentino Buzza as Pang, Armando Gabba as the Mandarin, and Marcello Nardis as Altoum.
The performance will be conducted by Francesco Ivan Ciampa, with choir direction by Alfonso Caiani, and the children’s choir of the Little Venetian Singers led by Diana D’Alessio and Elena Rossi. Directed by Cecilia Ligorio, with sets by Alessia Colossus, costumes by Simone Valsecchi, and lighting by Fabio Barettin, this production promises to bring the magic and grandeur of “Turandot” to life at La Fenice. Don’t miss this spectacular operatic event!
Website: www.teatrolafenice.it
Location: La Fenice Opera House, Venice
Schedule: Aug. 30 – Sept. 18, 2024