Color: Colour

Credits:

Ravel / Koroliov

Description:

Gaul in 50 BC. Norma, daughter of the Druidic high priestess Orovezo and head priestess, disobeys the teachings of her own religion and makes love to her enemy, the Roman governor Polione, with whom she has two children. But when Norma learns that Pollione has recently transferred his heart to the young priestess Adalgisa, she decides to take revenge... The Royal Opera opened the 2016/2017 season with a new production of "Norma". Bellini's "Norma" is one of the most difficult roles for a soprano. She is a woman who is ostensibly holy, but in fact is consumed by love and jealousy. In addition to the difficulty of expressing emotions, many arias, such as "O muse, pure and innocent," are accompanied by superb technique. Even today, it is said that only a few singers can sing this role perfectly. Sonya Yoncheva from Bulgaria sings such a difficult role with overwhelming presence.Originally, another great singer was scheduled to play this role, but she cancelled the appointment several months before the opening. Yoncheva was substituted at short notice, but all the audience was surprised and gave her unreserved praise for her singing that gave no hint of such behind-the-scenes circumstances. Pappano's conducting, as usual, spun out each note as if with love, and Calleja as Pollione and Ganassi as Adalgisa also showed wonderful teamwork, making this a perfect performance. The beautiful stage and costumes, as well as the unexpected end of the play, are also highlights of this production. Naxos Japan