Falstaff - M.W. Balfe
Opera
Sir John Falstaff considers himself irresistible. Using identical love letters, he tries to win over several ladies at once. But the shrewd women of Windsor aren’t so easily fooled… Shakespeare’s famous bon vivant and his ill-fated romantic escapades have inspired many composers. Michael William Balfe’s setting of the story is a true rediscovery. The Irishman, himself a celebrated opera singer, was also extremely successful as a composer in Victorian England. His experiences as a singer are also reflected in his works. He wrote the Italian-language “Falstaff” in the bel canto style, which premiered in London in 1838. The work is brimming with melodic charm: Catchy melodies and breathtaking coloratura blend masterfully with William Shakespeare’s sparkling comedy. With the Swiss premiere of this opera, Franco Trinca celebrates an inspiring return to TOBS as a guest conductor. Artistic Director Dieter Kaegi directs.
Translated with DeepL
