© Michele Monasta
Lucrezia Borgia, Gaetano Donizetti’s thrilling opera, explores the notorious and multifaceted life of one of history’s most infamous women. Premiered at Teatro alla Scala in 1833, Donizetti’s adaptation of Victor Hugo’s play captures the dark intensity and psychological complexity of Lucrezia Borgia. A feared member of the powerful Borgia family, Lucrezia is known for her ruthlessness, her strategic manipulation, and an unyielding pursuit of control. But behind her cold exterior lies a conflicted woman harboring a deep, tragic secret—she has a son, Gennaro, whom she had to abandon at birth. When Lucrezia meets Gennaro years later in Venice, he doesn’t know her identity, and yet he is drawn to her. Their relationship unfolds in a high-stakes game of revenge and revelation, culminating in a tragic climax where Gennaro realizes, too late, that the woman he despises is his own mother. With Jessica Pratt in the title role, this powerful performance is set to captivate audiences at the Teatro del Maggio Musicale Fiorentino this November. Conducted by Francesco Ivan Ciampa and directed by Andrea Bernard, the production brings Donizetti’s music to life, echoing the themes of vengeance, forbidden love, and redemption with an unforgettable dramatic force.
Plot and History of Lucrezia Borgia
Donizetti’s Lucrezia Borgia, inspired by Victor Hugo’s drama, premiered in 1833 and captures the intrigue and betrayal surrounding its title character. Set in 16th-century Italy, the story follows Lucrezia Borgia, a member of the powerful Borgia family and a figure both feared and despised for her deadly ambition. Known for her readiness to eliminate anyone who threatens her position, Lucrezia’s complexity shines when she encounters her long-lost son, Gennaro. Unaware of his mother’s identity, Gennaro feels drawn to her, but his friends reveal her true identity, publicly humiliating her in the process. This act ignites Lucrezia’s wrath, setting off a tragic chain of events. She retaliates by poisoning Gennaro’s friends, but her rage turns to heartbreak when she realizes that Gennaro is among the victims. In a heart-wrenching finale, she reveals her identity to him, only for him to die in her arms, cursing her name. The opera’s score combines beautiful bel canto melodies with dramatic intensity, revealing Donizetti’s gift for character-driven music. Lucrezia Borgia has become a beloved work in the operatic repertoire, celebrated for its powerful arias, emotional depth, and the demanding role of Lucrezia, which requires an interpreter of exceptional vocal prowess and dramatic sensitivity.
Cast and Creative Team
Melodramatic opera in a prologue and two acts by Gaetano Donizetti
Libretto by Felice Romani from the play Lucrezia Borgia by Victor Hugo, which in turn is based on the legend of Lucrezia Borgia
Conductor • Francesco Ivan Ciampa
Director • Andrea Bernard
Sets • Andrea Beltrame
Costumes • Elena Beccaro
Lights • Marco Alba
Maggio Musicale Fiorentino Orchestra and Chorus
Chorus master • Lorenzo Fratini
CAST
Alfonso I d’Este • Mirko Palazzi
Lucrezia Borgia • Jessica Pratt
Gennaro • René Barbera
Maffio Orsini • Laura Verrecchia
Booking Process
Music trip to Florence for 3 days / 2 nights with premium tickets for the opera “Lucrezia Borgia”. Located in the heart of Florence, the Teatro del Maggio Musicale Fiorentino is an iconic cultural landmark known for its dedication to the world of Italian opera. This prestigious venue is a symbol of artistic excellence and is celebrated internationally for its modern acoustics and superb staging. Each season, it presents an impressive lineup of performances, drawing an audience that includes opera aficionados and international visitors alike. With its prime location in Tuscany’s historic and artistic capital, attending an opera here is an enriching experience that extends beyond the performance itself, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the vibrant local culture. From its breathtaking architecture to its world-class productions, the theater offers an experience that is a feast for the senses. This November, witness Lucrezia Borgia amidst the splendor of Florence, a city renowned for its museums, Renaissance treasures, and culinary delights.
Each travel package will be composed according to your wishes. Follow the booking process:
- Select a Date
- Press “Add to cart” and “Send Request”
- When we receive your booking request, you will get an individual offer with some hotels to choose from. Only after your decision, we send you a travel contract to confirm the booking.
- Description of the Essential and Superior Package
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Performance Dates of “Lucrezia Borgia”
2025-11-09 ... 2025-11-16
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Events
Operas, Ballets, Concerts of the Season 2024/25
In Florence at the Teatro del Maggio
