Rigoletto - ROH

Set in 1960s Italy, the story follows Rigoletto, the hunchbacked court jester to the debauched Duke of Mantua. Consumed by bitterness and a fierce desire to protect his daughter Gilda, Rigoletto orchestrates a cruel revenge against the Duke. However, his plans unravel disastrously when Gilda falls in love with the very man her father despises, leading to a tragic chain of events.

The 2022 Royal Opera House production of Verdi's 'Rigoletto' by David McVicar received widespread critical acclaim for its visually stunning and emotionally resonant staging. Reviewers praised the powerful vocal performances and the sharp direction, which effectively brought out the opera's tragic intensity. It was lauded as a compelling and definitive interpretation of a beloved masterpiece.

• Visually spectacular staging that enhances the opera's dramatic impact.

• Exceptional vocal performances, particularly from the principals.

• A deeply moving and tragic rendition of Verdi's iconic work.

Google audience: Audience reception for this production was overwhelmingly positive, with many highlighting the stunning set designs and the emotional depth of the performances. Viewers appreciated the clarity of the storytelling and the power of the music, often describing it as a memorable and impactful operatic experience.

David McVicar's production relocates the opera from 16th-century Mantua to the vibrant and politically charged atmosphere of 1960s Italy, drawing parallels between the Duke's aristocratic decadence and the era's social upheaval.