Composer

:

Ermanno Wolf-Ferrari

Genre

:

Opera

Style

:

Opera

Compose Date

:

Nov 27, 1903

Le donne curiose is an opera in three acts composed by Ermanno Wolf-Ferrari. The opera was composed in 1903 and premiered on November 27, 1903, at the Hoftheater in Munich, Germany. The libretto was written by Luigi Sugana, based on a play by Carlo Goldoni. The plot of the opera revolves around a group of women who are curious about the affairs of their husbands. The women, led by Rosaura, decide to investigate their husbands' activities and discover that they are involved in a secret society. The women decide to join the society and attend a meeting, where they are discovered by their husbands. The men are outraged and demand that their wives leave the society. The women refuse and a series of comedic misunderstandings and arguments ensue. The first movement of the opera is characterized by a lively and playful tone, with the women conspiring and planning their investigation. The second movement is more serious, as the women discover the secret society and become embroiled in the men's affairs. The final movement is a comedic resolution, as the men and women reconcile and the secret society is revealed to be a harmless group of amateur musicians. Le donne curiose is known for its use of comedic elements and its exploration of gender roles and relationships. The opera was well-received at its premiere and has since become a staple of the operatic repertoire. Wolf-Ferrari's use of traditional Italian melodies and rhythms, combined with his modern harmonies and orchestration, make Le donne curiose a unique and engaging work.

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