The opera “La Cenerentola” by Gioachino Rossini is based on the well-known fairy tale of Cinderella, but offers some deviations from the classic story. The main character Angelina, called Cenerentola, lives with her evil stepmother and two selfish stepsisters, Clorinda and Tisbe, who treat her like a servant. Her father Don Magnifico is a decrepit baron who also only thinks of his own benefits.

The prince Don Ramiro is looking for a bride and decides to recognize the true nature of the possible candidates. He disguises himself as his servant Dandini, while Dandini takes on the role of the prince. They visit Don Magnifico’s house, where Ramiro is immediately impressed by Angelina’s kindness and modesty. To test the women’s true intentions and characters, Dandini, as a fake prince, invites the sisters and Don Magnifico to the ball.

Angelina also wants to go to the ball, but her family refuses to let her. Alidoro, the prince’s philosophical teacher and Angelina’s secret protector, shows up and gives her a magnificent dress so that she can attend the ball unrecognized. At the ball, although Angelina is not dressed as her servant, the prince recognizes her true beauty and virtue. Angelina, on the other hand, recognizes the real prince in the servant’s disguise.

The next day, Angelina returns to her humble home, where she is again bullied by her family. Eventually, the prince reveals his true identity and asks Angelina to become his wife. The sisters and Don Magnifico are stunned and try to ingratiate themselves with her. Despite everything, Angelina remains generous and forgives her family. The opera ends with Angelina and Ramiro’s wedding, with the power of kindness and forgiveness triumphing.