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Edmea - Wexford Festival Opera
Edmea is an orphan in love with Count Oberto, whose father disapproves. In Oberto’s absence Edmea is forced to marry the servant Ulmo, who is also in love with her, but with the loss of Oberto, Edmea is driven mad and tries to kill herself by jumping into the river. She wanders the countryside with Ulmo who continues to love her and pretends to be her brother. They join up with a band of jesters and with them return to the castle where Oberto has been mourning his loss. On recognising Edmea, Oberto’s declarations of love help her to regain her reason. Ulmo makes the ultimate sacrifice, shooting himself, so that Oberto and Edmea are finally able to celebrate their marriage.
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Plot Summary
Edmea, a young woman from a humble background, is in love with the wealthy industrialist Carlo. Their romance is threatened by Carlo's father, who is determined to marry him off to the daughter of a business associate. Edmea faces societal prejudice and personal sacrifice as she navigates the complexities of love, class, and ambition in late 19th-century Italy.
Critical Reception
The Wexford Festival Opera's production of 'Edmea' was generally well-received, praised for its ambitious staging and strong vocal performances, particularly from the lead cast. It was noted as a significant revival of a lesser-known opera, offering audiences a chance to experience a work by Franco Faccio.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for bringing a rare Faccio opera to life.
Commended for the vocal prowess and commitment of the principal singers.
Acknowledged for its thoughtful and evocative production design.
Google audience: Audience feedback was limited due to the niche nature of the performance, but reviews often highlighted the impressive musicality and the successful revival of a forgotten work.
Fun Fact
Edmea is one of the few operas by Franco Faccio, an Italian composer and conductor who was a close friend of Giuseppe Verdi and a champion of Richard Wagner's music in Italy.
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