Composer

:

Giuseppe Verdi

Genre

:

Opera

Style

:

Opera

Compose Date

:

Jan 1958

Average_duration

:

126:10

Gustavo III, also known as Un ballo in maschera, is an opera composed by Giuseppe Verdi. The plot is based on the assassination of King Gustav III of Sweden in 1792. The opera was composed in 1859 and premiered in Rome in 1861. The story revolves around the love triangle between King Gustav III, his best friend and advisor Count Anckarström, and Amelia, the wife of Anckarström. Gustav III is in love with Amelia and tries to win her over, but she remains loyal to her husband. Meanwhile, Anckarström discovers the king's intentions and becomes jealous and angry. He joins a group of conspirators who plan to assassinate the king during a masked ball. The first act takes place in the king's palace, where Gustav III is holding a masked ball. He sings a famous aria, "La rivedrà nell'estasi," expressing his love for Amelia. Anckarström and the conspirators plot their assassination during the ball. In the second act, Amelia confesses her love for the king to her confidante, Ulrica. Anckarström overhears their conversation and becomes even more enraged. He joins the conspirators and they draw lots to decide who will carry out the assassination. The third act takes place at the masked ball, where the assassination attempt takes place. Anckarström draws the lot and is forced to shoot the king. Gustav III dies in Amelia's arms, and Anckarström is arrested and sentenced to death. The opera features several notable movements, including the famous aria "La rivedrà nell'estasi," as well as the duet between Gustav III and Amelia, "Teco io sto." The music is characterized by Verdi's signature style, with dramatic and emotional melodies and powerful choruses. Overall, Gustavo III is a tragic opera that explores themes of love, jealousy, and betrayal. It premiered to mixed reviews, but has since become a beloved classic in the operatic repertoire.

More....