Composer

:

Michael William Balfe

Genre

:

Opera

Style

:

Opera

Compose Date

:

1858

"Satanella" is an opera in three acts composed by Michael William Balfe. The opera was first performed on December 22, 1858, at the Royal Italian Opera in London. The libretto was written by Edward Fitzball, and the opera was based on a French ballet-pantomime called "Satanella, ou Le Mariage de Satan" by Paul Taglioni. The plot of "Satanella" revolves around the devil, who falls in love with a mortal woman named Angela. The devil disguises himself as a mortal man named Don Cesar, and he tries to win Angela's heart. However, Angela is already in love with a mortal man named Enrico, and she rejects Don Cesar's advances. The devil becomes jealous and tries to ruin Angela's life, but in the end, he realizes the error of his ways and sacrifices himself to save her. The music of "Satanella" is characterized by its catchy melodies, lively rhythms, and colorful orchestration. The opera features several memorable arias, duets, and ensembles, including the famous "Angela's Song" and the "Devil's Serenade." The music also incorporates elements of Italian and French opera, as well as popular dance music of the time. "Satanella" was a popular opera in its time, and it was performed frequently throughout the 19th century. The opera was also adapted into a ballet-pantomime, which was performed in Paris and London. However, the opera fell out of favor in the 20th century, and it is now rarely performed. Despite its relative obscurity, "Satanella" remains an important work in the history of opera. The opera reflects the popular tastes and trends of the mid-19th century, and it showcases Balfe's skill as a composer of light opera. The opera also explores themes of love, jealousy, and redemption, which are timeless and universal.

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