The ideal romantic comedy for a Perth summer evening - a charming story of love’s misadventures, as fresh and engaging as it was in 1832.
Nemorino’s good hearted devotion warms the heart of the coquettish Adina and, thanks to the work of Dr Dulcamara’s potion (which works more in the imagination than in reality) true love triumphs. The melodies of this opera seem completely natural and effortless - perfectly expressing the emotional journeys and personalities of the characters.
Written in just 6 weeks, L’elisir d’amore became one of the most popular operas of its time - it was the most frequently performed opera in Italy between 1838 and 1848 - a time when one in four operas given in Italy was by Donizetti: a superstar composer in his time. The opera has been more recently made famous by Pavarotti’s popular recordings of the beautiful aria “Una furtiva lagrima”, where Nemorino finally realises that Adina loves him. L’elisir is a work of enduring magic - its capacity to delight and captivate through its comic charm and wonderful melody ensure its special place in our affections.
This Opera in the Park is also the occasion for the debuts of young WA artists, Roberto Abate and Sitiveni Talei in major roles - these are exciting new voices on their way to fine careers - catch them while you can. Favourite Perth singers Penelope Reynolds and Robert Hofmann sing the roles of the Adina and Dulcamara for the first time.