The Italian opera “I Puritani,” composed by Vincenzo Bellini, has returned to the stage with a bold new production by OperaLombardia, showcasing its significance in the bel canto repertoire. This revival, touring five northern Italian cities, including Cremona, offers a contemporary interpretation that resonates with today’s societal issues.
Originally conceived in Paris, “I Puritani” reflects the grand opera tradition of its time. Bellini, who was only 33 when he composed the work amidst political turmoil and personal crisis, aimed to capture the essence of grand opera while infusing it with his Sicilian roots. The libretto, penned by Carlo Pepoli, posed challenges for Bellini, as he had to guide Pepoli in the nuances of opera writing. Despite these hurdles, the opera features orchestral passages that are unusually rich, especially in the third act, aligning more with Parisian tastes than with Bellini’s native influences.
New Production Details
In this latest revival, Daniele Menghini has reimagined the setting, relocating the action to a contemporary community marked by violent fanaticism. The set design by Davide Signorini juxtaposes 17th-century relics with modern elements, including an automobile and industrial rice sacks. This stark contrast creates a microcosm reflecting themes of violence and identity. The costumes, designed by Nika Campisi, combine classical elements with modern attire, further enhancing the production’s relevance.
Menghini’s staging presents a contemporary lens through which to view the opera. The first act unfolds in a brutal environment, where “non-Puritans” are tortured, while the second act culminates in a banquet hall illuminated by a strobe light during the aria “Vien, diletto, è in ciel la luna.” This artistic choice, however, sometimes clashes with the opera’s intrinsic beauty, leading to disorientation for the audience. Despite moments that diverge from Bellini’s lyrical intent, the production maintains a coherent conceptual identity, bolstered by strong performances from actors such as Luca Miele and Gabriele Martini.
Musical Highlights
The musical direction by Sieva Borzak, conductor of I Pomeriggi Musicali, proved to be a highlight of the evening. Borzak, born in 1997, led the orchestra with a vibrant and nuanced interpretation of the bel canto style. His precise dynamic control and engaging tempos allowed both the lyrical and dramatic elements of the score to shine, while the orchestral volume was expertly balanced to complement the singers.
The cast, primarily composed of young talents, demonstrated commendable skills throughout the performance. Maria Laura Iacobellis emerged as a standout, delivering an exceptional portrayal of Elvira with her velvety timbre and technical prowess. Her interpretation of the mad scene showcased her artistic maturity, capturing the complexity of her character.
In contrast, Valerio Borgioni as Arturo displayed a beautiful timbre but faced challenges with high notes, particularly during the demanding aria “A te, o cara.” Despite this, his stage presence remained strong, and he effectively conveyed his character’s emotional depth. Roberto Lorenzi as Giorgio offered a solid performance, while Sunu Sun as Riccardo impressed with his resonant voice and Italian diction.
Despite the opera’s demanding vocal requirements, the audience received the production with enthusiasm, applauding the cast’s efforts. The revival of “I Puritani” not only highlights the artistic seriousness of OperaLombardia but also reaffirms the opera’s place within the modern repertoire. The production serves as a testament to Bellini’s enduring legacy and the adaptability of his work in contemporary settings.
