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Verdi: Un ballo in maschera
Un ballo in maschera (A Masked Ball) is an 1859 opera in three acts by Giuseppe Verdi. The text, by Antonio Somma, was based on Eugène Scribe's libretto for Daniel Auber's 1833 five act opera, Gustave III, ou Le bal masqué. The plot concerns the assassination in 1792 of King Gustav III of Sweden who was shot, as the result of a political conspiracy, while attending a masked ball, dying of his wounds thirteen days later.
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Plot Summary
Set in 17th-century Sweden, Count Anckarström is secretly in love with his wife, Amelia. However, Amelia is also carrying on a secret affair with Count Riccardo, the Governor of Sweden. When Anckarström discovers their infidelity, he plots revenge, leading to a tragic confrontation during a royal ball.
Critical Reception
This 1990 production of Verdi's 'Un ballo in maschera', directed by the acclaimed Jean-Pierre Ponnelle, is celebrated for its visually stunning staging and the powerful vocal performances of its cast. Critics lauded the interpretation of the complex emotional dynamics of the opera, particularly the intense performances by Lucia Popp and Plácido Domingo. The production is considered a significant contribution to opera filmography.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its lavish production design and Ponnelle's masterful direction.
Lucia Popp and Plácido Domingo deliver emotionally charged and vocally brilliant performances.
The opera's dramatic intensity is effectively conveyed through both acting and singing.
Google audience: Information regarding specific Google user reviews for this 1990 opera production is not readily available.
Fun Fact
Jean-Pierre Ponnelle was known for his innovative and often controversial stagings of classic operas, bringing a fresh, cinematic perspective to televised and filmed opera productions.
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