G. VERDI – Don Carlo

Although there are few absolutes in this world, the prevailing opinion is that Don Carlo is Giuseppe VERDI’s richest, most profound, most exciting, and possibly even his greatest creation. This work was originally a five-act, French-language opera commissioned for the Paris Opera, which was at that time the best funded, most ornate, and most resource-rich theater in the world. VERDI continued revising the opera after its premiere. After seven revisions, the final version was a four-act, Italian-language opera completed in 1882-83. This is the version that Weiwuying is staging.

Don Carlo is based on Friedrich SCHILLER’s play Don Carlos. In the story, all the characters are constrained. French Princess Elisabetta and Spanish Prince Don Carlo are in love, but she is forced to marry Carlo’s father, King Filippo II. Princess Eboli is in love with Carlo. She frames the queen out of jealousy and hatred, while being the king’s mistress herself. The loyal nobleman Rodrigo risks his life to plead for religious freedom for Flanders, and the Grande Inquisitore demands his execution. The plot involves intense palace infighting and intrigue. In addition to parent-child friction, amorous entanglements, and political conflicts, Don Carlo also shows the struggle between kingship and religious authority, which both agitates and enthralls people.

VERDI’s response to the tangled and complicated plot was to cut to the chase. He composed powerful arias and duets, as well as magnificent yet dark and terrifying scenes. It can be said this work is the culmination of German drama, French grand opera, and Italian music. The diverse roles call for a full vocal range, making Don Carlo a sumptuous vocal music feast. It is also the most brilliant product of opera’s golden age and a timeless classic. The open ending of Don Carlo gives directors the opportunity to show their creativity. This is the premiere of this multinational co-production in Taiwan, and you won’t want to miss it!

National Kaohsiung Center for the Arts (Weiwuying)

2022/10/27 (Thu) 19:00

2022/10/28 (Fri) 19:00

2022/10/29 (Sat) 14:30

2022/10/30 (Sun) 14:30