The sounds of Operaland
31 May 2019
31 May 2019
The story
Alfredo falls in love with Violetta and they try to start a new life together in the country, but Alfredo’s father convinces Violetta to end their relationship to save his family from shame.
De’ miei bollenti spiriti (‘My passionate spirit’)
In this aria, Alfredo sings of how Violetta’s love fills him with happiness, lifts his spirits and calms his restless heart.
Fun facts about La traviata
The story
Lakmé is about the forbidden love between Lakmé, an Indian priestess, and Gerald, a British army officer.
The Flower Duet
This duet helps set up the opera’s exotic scenery. Lakmé and her servant Mallika gather flowers by a river and sing about the beauty of nature.
Fun facts about Lakmé
The story
King of Crete, Idomeneo, breaks his vow to the god Neptune by sending away his son Idamante, whom he has promised to Neptune as a sacrifice.
Voyagers’ Chorus
In this chorus number, the people farewell Idamante, as he escorts Elettra back to her homeland. The chorus prays that the sea remains calm and their journey is safe.
Fun facts about Idomeneo
The story
The knight Ruggiero has been abducted by sorceress Alcina, who lures heroes to her enchanted island and turns them into animals and rocks.
The Chorus of Enchanted Islanders
Setting the scene of Alcina’s magnificent palace, members of the chorus sing in celebration, rejoicing at the pleasures and happiness the island brings to its heroes.
Fun facts about Alcina
The story
In the imaginary town of Titipu, Nanki-Poo returns to marry his sweetheart Yum-Yum after a year away but discovers that she is still engaged to her guardian Ko-Ko.
A wand’ring minstrel, I
Nanki-Poo sings this song to introduce himself to the gentlemen who are gathered in the town. He sings of the many songs in his repertoire, suitable for any mood.
Fun facts about The Mikado
The story
In ancient times on the island of Ceylon – now Sri Lanka – the vow of eternal friendship between Nadir and Zurga is tested when they both fall in love with the mysterious and beautiful Leïla.
The Pearlfisher’s Duet
In this duet, Nadir and Zurga remember how they turned against each other to win the love of a priestess. They vow to never let anything threaten their friendship again and swear to remain friends until they die.
Fun facts about The Pearlfishers
The story
Prince Tamino and Papageno set off on a quest to save Pamina from the clutches of the evil Sarastro and discover that the Queen of the Night is not who she seems.
The Hm Hm Quintet
Papageno is found to be lying and has his mouth padlocked as punishment, meaning he can only make humming noises. The Queen’s three ladies pardon him and Papageno learns his lesson.
Fun facts about The Magic Flute
The story
Young soldier Don José deserts his military duties and abandons his loved ones after being seduced by the fiery gypsy, Carmen. When she turns her attention to the glamorous bullfighter Escamillo, Don José struggles to deal with the jealousy that overwhelms him.
Toreador Song
Escamillo sings about the courage that is needed when facing a bull and the fame that comes with victory. The crowd joins in with a chorus praising the great bullfighter.
Fun facts about Carmen