Star Roof Experience: Turandot | Arena di Verona
About the Event
Combine Puccini's Turandot with the exclusive Star Roof Experience.
The Star Roof Experience takes place on the terrace of the stars, a hidden gem known by few, including the locals of Verona themselves. This unique setting is situated between the first ring of the Arena and the surviving wing, which has stood as a symbol of the amphitheater since the 1117 earthquake. From this vantage point, you will be treated to a breathtaking view of Piazza Bra and its historic Liston, perpetually bustling with visitors.
Before the opera, only 24 special guests will have access to this magical place, to enjoy a Michelin‐starred dinner before being taken directly to the ‘open‐air royal box’ to attend the opera.
The goal of this initiative is to collect funds, alongside Verona’s Municipality
and the Department responsible for Archaeology, Fine Arts and Landscape
for the provinces of Verona, to preserve such a unique monument as the Arena.
Once the dinner concludes, you will be escorted to the coveted front‐row seats to savor the opera performance. During the intermission, you will have exclusive access to a designated area where a personalized courtesy service awaits you.
Keep your head as Puccini's ice princess claims those of her suitors! Franco Zeffirelli's sumptuous production of Puccini's late masterpiece fills the Arena di Verona with the atmosphere of ancient Peking.
'None shall sleep', to borrow the words of the opera's most famous aria, Calaf's Nessun dorma, as darkness falls over the ancient amphitheater, and thousands of candles are lit, creating a magical atmosphere to match Puccini's luminous score.
'Turandot is Puccini's last opera, unfinished at the time of his death in 1924. The opera was completed by Franco Alfano, using Puccini’s sketches and drafts, although other versions are sometimes performed. As with 'Madama Butterfly', the composer explores Oriental tonality, both music and plot reflecting an enduring interest in exoticism that gripped Western Europe in the late 19th and early 20th Centuries. The plot is based on the story of the cold, hard‐hearted Princess Turandot from the Persian 'Book of One Thousand and One Days'. The tragic story of love and loss premiered in Milan in 1926, where the opera was shown in its unfinished version in honour of its composer.
Act 1
The Forbidden City in Beijing, China. The Princess Turandot, a woman of great beauty, but whose heart is cold as ice, sets her suitors three riddles. Failure to answer correctly comes with the penalty of death. The execution of a failed prince stirs the blood of the crowd. Among the crowd stands a vanquished king of Tartary, Timur. The old king meets his long‐lost son, Prince Calaf, once again. Calaf falls in love with Turandot at first sight, and swears he will answer her three riddles. Timur’s slave girl, Liu, attempts to stop his reckless resolve, but his determination strengthens.
Act 2
Turandot appears, and begins to ask Calaf her three riddles, and Calaf successfully answers. Turandot is furious, and refuses to marry him. Calaf offers an exchange — if Turandot can learn his name by dawn, he will forfeit his life.
Act 3
Turandot orders that no‐one may sleep until someone learns the mysterious prince's name. Liu is captured and tortured. Turandot asks Liu why she is refusing to give up his name. Liu answers that her love for Calaf gives her strength, and takes her own life.
Turandot remains alone to confront Calaf. Calaf gives away his own name. At the break of dawn, Turandot proclaims her victory. She announces to the crowd “His name is …Love”. Turandot and Calaf are married.
Practical Information
Includes:
- Dedicated concierge
- Exclusive area
- Placé dinner before the show
- Courtesy gift
- 'open air royal box'
- Opera ticket 1st row
- Early Entry: priority access to the venue
A minimum of 2 tickets must be booked.
Included are:
- Ticket to the opera performance in the chosen category
- One month's free access to a premium classical music streaming service
- self‐guided audio tour of Verona in English
Cast / Production
to be announced
