Composer

:

Francesco Cilèa

Genre

:

Opera

Style

:

Opera

Compose Date

:

1902

Average_duration

:

126:07

Adriana Lecouvreur is an opera in four acts composed by Francesco Cilèa. The opera is based on a play by Eugène Scribe and Ernest Legouvé. The plot revolves around the love affair between the famous actress Adriana Lecouvreur and the Count of Saxony. The opera is set in 18th century Paris and is known for its beautiful arias and duets. The opera was composed between 1896 and 1902 and premiered on November 6, 1902, at the Teatro Lirico in Milan. The premiere was a huge success, and the opera quickly became one of the most popular works in the Italian repertoire. The first act of the opera takes place in the green room of the Comédie-Française, where Adriana Lecouvreur is rehearsing for a new play. The Count of Saxony arrives and declares his love for her, but she is hesitant to reciprocate. The second act takes place at a party hosted by the Princess of Bouillon, where Adriana and the Count meet again. The Princess is also in love with the Count, and she becomes jealous of Adriana. The third act takes place in Adriana's dressing room, where she receives a bouquet of poisoned violets from the Princess. The Count arrives and finds Adriana dying. In the final act, the Count confronts the Princess and reveals that he loves Adriana. The Princess orders her servant to bring her the poisoned violets, but she accidentally eats them herself and dies. The opera is known for its beautiful arias and duets, including "Io son l'umile ancella" and "La dolcissima effigie." The music is characterized by lush orchestration and a romantic, melodic style. The opera also features a number of dance movements, including a minuet and a gavotte. Adriana Lecouvreur is a classic example of Italian verismo opera, which focuses on realistic portrayals of everyday life. The opera explores themes of love, jealousy, and betrayal, and it is known for its dramatic intensity and emotional power. The opera has been performed regularly since its premiere and remains a popular work in the operatic repertoire.

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