Wednesday, July 23rd 2008. 20:30
Palazzo Barbarigo-Minotto

Programme

Rossini, Gioacchino:
Il Barbiere di Siviglia

The Barber of Seville is a lyric opera by Gioacchino Rossini with libretto by Sterbini, based on a comedy of the same name by Beaumarchais.

The action takes place in the 17th century, and therefore the salons of the Palazzo Barbarigo-Minotto are an ideal stage, enriched and complemented by magnificent baroque furnishings.
The opera's two acts are performed in three different rooms: Portego (central hall), Sala Tiepolo, and the Camera da letto (bedroom with alcove) and the splendor of the rooms facing the Grand Canal can be appreciated during intermissions.

The architectonic structure of the palazzo, with its numerous doors of precious wood, allows the artists to move about, utilizing the scenic space “in the round" so that the audience can fully participate in Rossini's most amusing opera.
The surroundings are illuminated by candlelight, and the elegant costumes, designed by Anthony Knight and made of precious fabrics, are inspired by those of the era.
The exhilarating direction combines with the vocal and instrumental virtuosity of the performers to provide the spectators an evening of sparkling pleasure.