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Alfano - Cyrano de Bergerac
While best known today for having composed the ending to Puccini's unfinished Turandot, Franco Alfano wrote some dozen operas, including Cyrano de Bergerac (1936) with a libretto by Henri Cain based on Edmond Rostand's drama of the same name. It is a moving tale of romantic misunderstanding, swashbuckling bravado and heartbreaking loyalty, in which the eloquent Cyrano feels unable to express his love for Roxane because of his famously protuberant nose except on behalf of his handsome but inarticulate friend, Christian.
Insights
Plot Summary
This entry details a production of Edmond Rostand's classic play 'Cyrano de Bergerac', set to music by Franco Alfano. The opera, often simply titled 'Cyrano', focuses on the tragic tale of the poet-swordsman Cyrano, who, despite his eloquence and bravery, is too self-conscious about his large nose to confess his love for his cousin, Roxane. He instead helps Christian woo her, writing love letters on Christian's behalf, leading to a complex and ultimately heartbreaking love triangle.
Critical Reception
Information regarding critical reception for this specific 2007 production is limited. However, Alfano's opera 'Cyrano' has generally been considered a worthy, if not always consistently inspired, musical setting of the beloved play. Revivals often highlight the dramatic potential of the score and the enduring appeal of Rostand's story.
What Reviewers Say
Alfano's score captures the dramatic and romantic elements of the play effectively.
The opera provides a powerful musical interpretation of Cyrano's unrequited love and inner turmoil.
Performances in notable productions are often praised for their vocal and dramatic intensity.
Google audience: Audience reception for specific operatic productions can vary widely based on the performance. General appreciation for the story of Cyrano de Bergerac is high, and operatic adaptations typically appeal to fans of classical music and dramatic storytelling.
Awards & Accolades
Please provide notable awards or nominations for this specific production.
Fun Fact
Franco Alfano's opera 'Cyrano' was famously completed by him after the initial composer, Italo Montemezzi, abandoned the project. It premiered in Rome in 1936.
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