Composer

:

Gaetano Donizetti

Genre

:

Opera

Style

:

Opera

Compose Date

:

1830

Average_duration

:

71:54

"I pazzi per progetto" is an opera buffa in two acts composed by Gaetano Donizetti. The libretto was written by Domenico Gilardoni and is based on a play by Carlo Goldoni. The opera was composed in 1830 and premiered on January 6, 1831, at the Teatro Valle in Rome. The plot revolves around two young lovers, Rosmondo and Rosaura, who are prevented from marrying by their respective fathers, who are bitter rivals. The two fathers, Pantalone and Dottore, are both wealthy merchants who are obsessed with their own projects and schemes. They are also both convinced that they are the only ones who can save their city from ruin. In order to be together, Rosmondo and Rosaura come up with a plan to make their fathers think they are both insane. They enlist the help of a group of actors who pretend to be doctors and convince the fathers that their children are suffering from a rare and incurable disease. The fathers are then convinced to allow the two lovers to marry, believing that it is the only way to save them. The first act of the opera is set in the home of Pantalone, where he is working on his latest project, a machine that he believes will revolutionize the textile industry. Dottore arrives and the two men argue about their respective projects. Rosmondo and Rosaura enter and reveal their plan to pretend to be insane. The two fathers are initially skeptical, but are eventually convinced by the actors posing as doctors. The second act takes place in a mental institution, where Rosmondo and Rosaura have been placed. The two fathers visit and are horrified by the conditions they find there. They are eventually convinced to allow the two lovers to marry, and the opera ends with a joyful celebration. "I pazzi per progetto" is characterized by its lively and humorous music, which perfectly complements the farcical plot. The opera features a number of memorable arias and ensembles, including Rosaura's "Ah! Non mi ridestar" and the quartet "Che confusione!" The opera is also notable for its use of the ensemble, with many of the scenes featuring multiple characters singing at the same time. Overall, "I pazzi per progetto" is a delightful and entertaining opera that showcases Donizetti's skill as a composer of comic opera. Its premiere was well-received, and it remains a popular work in the repertoire of many opera companies today.

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