“The Barber of Seville” is a comic opera written by Gioachino Rossini. It premiered in 1816 and remains one of the most popular operas in the repertoire. Today, after over 200 years, this opera is one of the top three most loved and often performed operas in theaters around the world.
Here you can find an incredible video of the entire opera performed in the La Fenice theater in Venice. The Gran Teatro La Fenice is one of the most famous and renowned opera houses in the world. “La Fenice” means “The Phoenix” in English, symbolizing the theater's history of being burned down and then rebuilt.
On January 29, 1996, a devastating fire ravaged the historic Gran Teatro La Fenice. The blaze completely destroyed the iconic opera house, with suspicions of arson rising. Despite the extensive damage, the renowned venue was meticulously reconstructed to its former glory, reopening in 2003.
The importance of Teatro La Fenice lies in its cultural significance and contribution to the world of opera. It is a symbol of Venetian culture and tradition, attracting tourists and opera enthusiasts from around the globe. The theater is very important for opera's development and is still a prestigious place for opera, concerts, and cultural events.
Okay, let's not continue any further, it's time for the show to start! The work is subtitled in Italian, but trust us, it will keep your eyes glued to the screen from start to finish. Below the video we leave you a summary of the story divided into three acts, just like the theatrical scenes it is made up of!
Resume of “The Barber of Seville”
Act 1:
In the bustling city of Seville, Count Almaviva disguises himself as a poor student named Lindoro to woo Rosina, the beautiful ward of the aging Dr. Bartolo. With the help of Figaro, the clever barber of Seville, Almaviva tries to serenade Rosina but is interrupted by Bartolo. Figaro and Almaviva come up with a plan to gain access to Rosina by having Almaviva disguise himself as a drunken soldier.
Act 2:
Almaviva, disguised as a soldier, creates chaos outside Bartolo's house to distract him while Figaro helps Rosina and Almaviva communicate through a window. Rosina, who is in love with Lindoro (Almaviva), agrees to elope with him. However, their plans are thwarted by Bartolo's suspicions and interference.
Act 3:
With the help of Figaro, Almaviva devises a new plan to outwit Bartolo and marry Rosina. Disguised as a music teacher, Almaviva gains access to Bartolo's house and convinces Rosina to marry him instead. The lovers are finally united, and Bartolo is left defeated as they celebrate their love and freedom.