Norma
NORMA by
Vincenzo Bellini
Opera in two acts
The second divided into two scenes
Libretto by Felice Romani
Based on the tragedy Norma, ou L'infanticide by Alexandre Soumet.
Premiered on December 26, 1831, at La Scala Theatre in Milan
Featuring the Symphony Orchestra of Opera 2001
and the Collaboration of the Sicilian Lyric Choir
Original version in Italian with subtitles in Spanish
Cast
Musical direction: Martin MÁZIK / Dominique ROUITS (Opera de Massy)
Artistic direction: Luis Miguel LAINZ
Stage direction: Aquiles MACHADO
Set design and costume design: Alfredo TROISI
Costume realization: Sartoria ARRIGO (Italy)
Footwear: Calzature di Epoca (Italy)
Wigs: Artimagine (Italy)
CO-PRODUCTION OPERA 2001 – OPERA DE MASSY (Paris-Sud)
Play's presentation
Who hasn't been overwhelmed by the immense Casta Diva, one of the most beautiful gems in the history of opera that could symbolize by itself the entire art of singing? With Norma, Bellini offered the operatic world the absolute masterpiece of bel canto, an unsurpassed model of beauty and emotion, elevating the Gallic priestess, a complex and fascinating woman, to the status of a myth for eternity. An opera that left an indelible mark on Maria Callas, whose centenary is celebrated this season.
Synopsis
Norma, a priestess of the Druids, finds herself torn between serving her god and her people and a romantic affair with a Roman proconsul, Pollio, with whom she has two children. Her love for him leads her to attempt to quell the rebellion in Rome, hoping to achieve peace between the peoples and thus not lose her beloved. However, Pollio falls in love with Adalgisa, another Druid priestess. Consequently, Norma convinces the Druids to attack Rome. The love between Norma and Pollio resurfaces, and they offer themselves together as a sacrifice to a tragic fate, to burn in the flames.
Setting: Gaul Period: After the Roman invasion
