Composer

:

Camille Saint-Saëns

Genre

:

Opera

Style

:

Opera

Compose Date

:

1890

Average_duration

:

3:44

Ascanio is an opera in five acts composed by Camille Saint-Saëns. The opera was composed between 1887 and 1888 and premiered on March 21, 1890, at the Paris Opera. The libretto was written by Louis Gallet and is based on the historical figure of Benvenuto Cellini, a famous Italian sculptor and goldsmith. The plot of Ascanio revolves around the love story between Ascanio, a young apprentice of Cellini, and Colombe, the daughter of the Duke of Ferrara. Ascanio is torn between his love for Colombe and his loyalty to Cellini, who is commissioned by the Duke to create a statue of the goddess Diana. Ascanio helps Cellini in his work, but the Duke becomes jealous of Cellini's talent and orders him to be arrested. Ascanio and Colombe try to help Cellini escape, but they are caught and imprisoned. The second act takes place in the Duke's palace, where Cellini is being held captive. Ascanio and Colombe try to convince the Duke to release Cellini, but he refuses. In the third act, Cellini manages to escape from prison and seeks refuge in the home of a friend. Ascanio and Colombe join him there, and they plan to flee to Rome together. The fourth act takes place in Rome, where Cellini is working on a new statue. The Duke arrives in Rome and tries to have Cellini arrested again, but he is unsuccessful. Ascanio and Colombe are reunited, but their happiness is short-lived as the Duke orders Ascanio to be killed. In the final act, Cellini manages to save Ascanio's life, and the Duke is forced to pardon him. Ascanio and Colombe are finally able to be together. Ascanio is characterized by its lush orchestration and complex vocal writing. The opera features a number of memorable arias and duets, including Ascanio's "Je suis l'apprenti" and Colombe's "Ah! Vous avez eu pitié de moi." The opera also includes a number of lively ensemble scenes, such as the opening chorus of Act I and the finale of Act IV. Overall, Ascanio is a compelling opera that combines elements of romance, drama, and historical fiction. Its premiere was well-received by audiences and critics alike, and it remains a popular work in the operatic repertoire today.

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