Composer

:

Antonio Salieri

Genre

:

Opera

Style

:

Opera

Compose Date

:

1785

"La grotta di Trofonio" is an opera buffa in two acts composed by Antonio Salieri. The libretto was written by Giovanni Battista Casti and was first performed at the Burgtheater in Vienna on 12 October 1785. The plot revolves around two young men, Artemidoro and Plistene, who are in love with the same woman, Ofelia. They seek the help of Trofonio, a magician who lives in a cave, to solve their love triangle. Trofonio grants their wish and transports them to a magical world where their personalities are reversed. Artemidoro becomes timid and Plistene becomes bold. They both pursue Ofelia, but she is not interested in either of them. In the end, they return to their original personalities and realize that they are better off without Ofelia. The opera is characterized by its light-hearted and comedic tone, with a focus on the absurdity of the situation. The music is lively and playful, with a mix of recitative and aria. The use of ensemble numbers, such as the quartet in Act II, adds to the overall sense of fun. "La grotta di Trofonio" was well-received upon its premiere and was performed throughout Europe in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. It is considered one of Salieri's most successful operas and is still occasionally performed today.

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