Composer

:

Domenico Scarlatti

Genre

:

Opera

Style

:

Opera

Compose Date

:

ca. 1710

Average_duration

:

3:49

Movement_count

:

2

Movement ....

"Tolomeo e Alessandro" is an opera seria composed by Domenico Scarlatti in 1711. The libretto was written by Nicola Francesco Haym and is based on the story of Alexander the Great and his encounter with the Egyptian king Ptolemy. The opera premiered on May 30, 1711, at the Teatro San Giovanni Grisostomo in Venice. The opera is divided into three acts and features a cast of six principal singers. The main characters are Tolomeo, the Egyptian king, and Alessandro, the Macedonian conqueror. The plot revolves around the conflict between the two rulers and their struggle for power and love. The first act opens with Tolomeo's court celebrating his victory over the Persians. Alessandro arrives in Egypt and is welcomed by Tolomeo, who offers him his sister, Cleopatra, in marriage. However, Alessandro falls in love with Tolomeo's fiancée, Elmira, and decides to pursue her instead. In the second act, Tolomeo discovers Alessandro's intentions and becomes enraged. He orders his soldiers to capture Elmira and kill Alessandro. However, Elmira manages to escape and seeks refuge with Alessandro. The two lovers plan to flee Egypt together, but are caught by Tolomeo's soldiers. The final act sees Tolomeo and Alessandro engage in a battle for the throne of Egypt. Tolomeo is defeated and Alessandro emerges victorious. He pardons Tolomeo and allows him to keep his kingdom, while he and Elmira return to Macedonia. "Tolomeo e Alessandro" is characterized by Scarlatti's use of complex vocal ornamentation and intricate instrumental accompaniment. The opera features a number of arias, duets, and ensemble pieces, showcasing Scarlatti's skill in writing for the human voice. The opera was well-received at its premiere and enjoyed a successful run in Venice. It was later performed in other Italian cities, including Rome and Naples. Today, "Tolomeo e Alessandro" is considered one of Scarlatti's most important works and is occasionally revived in modern productions.

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