The sets exude a rural but recognizable rusticity, while the production’s costumes are suitable for both time and place. The visuals are the handiwork of Ashley Martin-Davis, who originally prepared it for the Santa Fe Opera. But for this one, Nemorino and Adina’s amorous antics were brought forward to 1943 Italy. In the end, almost everyone gets what they want.Įlixir premiered in 1832, and many traditional productions are set in this general time period.

The plot fizzes along with light hearted zip, thanks in no small part to seemingly endless bel canto numbers. Meanwhile, the itinerant Dulcamara sells Nemorino a potion that he claims will make all the women in town lust after him. Belcore tries to wed Adina, much to the chagrin of Nemorino. Along the way, Sergeant Belcore and Doctor Dulcamara, a physician of questionable credibility, create most of the comedy’s conflict. One of Donizetti’s most famous works, it tells the story of Nemorino and Adina, two young and beautiful people who, despite their hopeless and hapless actions, eventually find true love together.

And it was an apt observation, for the Seattle Opera’s opening salvo this season is none other than Donizetti’s bel canto masterpiece, The Elixir of Love.

This was the understated promulgation that Christina Scheppelmann, Seattle Opera’s General Director, made to the audience at the commencement of the company’s 2022-2023 season. ‘Sometimes operas do have happy endings’. (ZC) Amitai Pati as Nemorino © Sunny Martini United States Donizetti, The Elixir of Love: Soloists, Chorus of the Seattle Opera, Seattle Symphony / Giampaolo Bisanti (conductor).

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