Opera: La sonnambula (The Sleepwalker)

by Vincenzo Bellini
Teatro Massimo di Palermo 2025-10-17 ... 2025-10-23

La sonnambula, composed by Vincenzo Bellini , is a captivating bel canto opera that beautifully captures the charm and emotional depth of the genre. With a libretto by Felice Romani, inspired by Eugène Scribe’s La somnambule, the story centers on the innocent and delicate character of Amina, whose sleepwalking brings her love and reputation into question. Bellini’s music, renowned for its lyrical beauty and expressive melodies, conveys the emotional nuances of the characters, making La sonnambula a beloved staple of the operatic repertoire. From October 17 to 23, 2025, Teatro Massimo in Palermo will host a new co-production of this enchanting opera, created in collaboration with Teatro Real Madrid, Teatro Liceu Barcelona, and the New National Theatre Tokyo. The production, directed by Bárbara Lluch, brings fresh insights to this timeless tale, with conductor Giuseppe Mengoli leading the Teatro Massimo Orchestra and Chorus. Featuring an outstanding cast, including Jessica Pratt as Amina and Francesco Demuro as Elvino, this production promises to deliver a spellbinding experience. Teatro Massimo’s staging of La sonnambula is a not-to-be-missed event for opera lovers, combining Bellini’s sublime music with a fresh visual interpretation, set against the backdrop of Palermo’s rich cultural scene.

Teatro Massimo Travel Package

Music trip to Sicily with a performance at the Teatro Massimo in Palermo.
The Teatro Massimo, located in the heart of Palermo, is a cultural landmark and an essential part of Sicily’s artistic heritage. Opened in 1897, it is the largest opera house in Italy and one of Europe’s grandest, known for its splendid architecture and acoustics. The theater’s impressive Neoclassical façade, elegant interiors, and opulent auditorium make it a place where the past and present of the performing arts come together. Over the years, Teatro Massimo has hosted some of the most celebrated opera and ballet performances, attracting audiences from across the globe. Its diverse programming includes a mix of classic and contemporary works, ensuring there is something for everyone to enjoy. Attending a performance here not only offers a night of exceptional music but also provides an opportunity to explore Palermo’s historic center, with its stunning blend of architectural styles, vibrant markets, and renowned cuisine.

Plot and History of the Opera

La sonnambula is set in a picturesque Swiss village and tells the story of Amina, a young orphan engaged to Elvino. Her innocence and joy are threatened when, on the eve of their wedding, she is found sleepwalking in the room of Count Rodolfo, leading to accusations of infidelity. Elvino, devastated by what he believes to be betrayal, calls off the engagement. The opera reaches its emotional peak as Amina’s sleepwalking is revealed to be a condition rather than a sign of guilt, allowing her innocence to be proven and her love for Elvino restored. The plot, while simple, is rich in emotional content, providing the perfect canvas for Bellini’s lyrical and expressive music.

Premiering at Teatro Carcano in Milan in 1831, La sonnambula was an immediate success and solidified Bellini’s reputation as a leading composer of bel canto opera. The opera’s graceful melodies and dramatic intensity have made it a favorite among singers and audiences alike. It reflects Bellini’s ability to translate human emotions into music, with Amina’s aria “Ah! non credea mirarti” standing as a highlight of the bel canto tradition. Throughout the years, La sonnambula has continued to captivate opera lovers with its blend of drama, melody, and vocal virtuosity.

The Artists and Creative Team

Music • Vincenzo Bellini
Libretto • Felice Romani, from La somnambule di Eugène Scribe
Conductor • Giuseppe Mengoli
Director • Bárbara Lluch
Assistant Director • Anna Ponces
Scene Designs • Christof Hetzer
Costume Designs • Clara Peluffo
Coreographer • Iratxe Ansa
Lighting Designs • Urs Schönebaum

Cast

Amina • Jessica Pratt (17, 19, 21, 23) / Ruth Iniesta (18, 22)
Elvino • Francesco Demuro (17, 19, 21, 23) / César Cortés (18, 22)
Rodolfo • Carlo Lepore (17, 19, 21, 23)
Lisa • Ilaria Monteverdi (17, 19, 21, 23) / Noemi Muschetti (18, 22)
Alessio • Mariano Orozco
Teresa • Natalia Gavrilan
Teatro Massimo Orchestra, Chorus and Ballet
Chorus Master • Salvatore Punturo
Ballet Director • Jean-Sébastien Colau

A new co-production of the Teatro Real Madrid, Teatro Liceu Barcellona and the New National Theatre Tokyo

Booking Process

Music trip to Sicily with premium tickets for the performance “La sonnambula” at the Teatro Massimo in Palermo.
The travel package contains 3 days with 2 overnights in a hotel in Palermo and will be composed according to your wishes. You can select between Essential and Superior Package and request more overnights and a following program to explore Sicily.

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