Opera

Auber had a major success in 1831 with Le Philtre, a romantic comedy about village life in the Pays Basque. At lignting speed, Donizetti came out with an Italian version

Dec 7, 2009 - William Halsey

In 17th and 18th century Italian opera, adolescent boys and young men were often played by castrati. As castrati singers died out, women dressed as men took on the roles.

Dec 3, 2009 - Karen Finch

The composer Gaetano Donizetti, far from being a hack composer of little importance, is a fundamental figure in the development of opera during the nineteenth century.

Nov 24, 2009 - William Halsey

Don Giovanni was commissioned for Opera Prague, opening on October 29, 1787. Based on a libretto by Lorenzo da Ponte, it is one of many versions of the story of Don Juan.

Nov 21, 2009 - Karen Finch

Guide to the plot, characters and history of The Gondoliers, or the King of Barataria (1889), Gilbert & Sullivan's last successful collaboration.

Nov 21, 2009 - Amelia Hill