Composer

:

Gaetano Donizetti

Genre

:

Opera

Style

:

Opera

Average_duration

:

147:52

"Ugo, conte di Parigi" is an opera in two acts composed by Gaetano Donizetti. The libretto was written by Felice Romani and is based on the play "Le Comte d'Essex" by Thomas Corneille. The opera was composed in 1832 and premiered on March 13, 1832, at La Scala in Milan. The plot of the opera revolves around the historical figure of Hugh the Great, Count of Paris, who lived in the 10th century. The story is set in the court of King Lothair of France, where Ugo, the Count of Paris, is in love with the queen, Adelia. However, Adelia is already married to the king, and their love is forbidden. Ugo is torn between his love for Adelia and his loyalty to the king. The first act of the opera begins with a chorus of knights and ladies celebrating the arrival of Ugo, who has returned from a successful military campaign. Ugo is greeted by the king, who praises him for his bravery and loyalty. However, Ugo is troubled by his love for Adelia and his loyalty to the king. Adelia enters, and Ugo is unable to hide his feelings for her. Adelia is also in love with Ugo, but she is torn between her love for him and her duty to her husband, the king. In the second act, Ugo and Adelia meet in secret, and they declare their love for each other. However, their happiness is short-lived, as the king discovers their affair. The king challenges Ugo to a duel, and Ugo is mortally wounded. Adelia rushes to his side, and they declare their love for each other one last time before Ugo dies. The music of "Ugo, conte di Parigi" is characterized by Donizetti's signature bel canto style, with beautiful melodies and virtuosic vocal writing. The opera features several memorable arias, including Ugo's "Ah! Per sempre io ti perdei" and Adelia's "Ah! Se un giorno da queste ritorte." Despite its initial success, "Ugo, conte di Parigi" fell out of favor in the 19th century and was rarely performed. However, it has enjoyed a revival in recent years, with several productions staged in Europe and the United States. The opera is a testament to Donizetti's skill as a composer and his ability to create compelling characters and dramatic situations.

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