Michael Rosewell conductor
Louise Bakker director
Becky-Dee Trevenen designer
Joshua Gadsby lighting designer
Alex Gotch choreographer
The legend of Don Giovanni has inspired many artists over the centuries, including Italian composer Giuseppe Gazzaniga, whose one-act opera predates Mozart's by just nine months.
A tale of seduction and destruction, Don Giovanni's spectacular downfall begins with a fatal duel. The antihero embarks on a spree, attempting to woo all those he encounters, before being dragged to his death by a statue come to life – the spirit of the man he killed – in the ultimate act of revenge.
Premiered in February 1787, Don Giovanni Tenorio was Gazzaniga's most successful work within his impressive collection of over 50 operas – but is now rarely performed. With the composer's light, Venetian style and Giovanni Bertati's lively libretto, this is a unique opportunity to hear the fascinating opera that inspired future retellings of the tale.
This production is made possible with the assistance of the Basil Coleman bequest.
Please note this production contains adult themes, sexual references and violence, and may not be suitable for children.
Total run time: 2 hours 5 mins including a 20 minute interval. As was the performance practice of the day, this production incorporates some additional content by Gazzaniga’s contemporaries including Salieri, Sarti and Mozart himself.