by Gioachino Rossini
Sung in Italian with projected English translations
Dec. 1, 3(m), 6 & 9, 2006

A quick-thinking barber uses all his skills to make it possible for Count Almaviva to court the beautiful Rosina, the unwilling ward of the possessive Doctor Bartolo. Love assumes one disguise after another, as the world's most popular comic opera returns to The Dallas Opera stage! This production, designed by Tony Award—winner Desmond Heeley, reunites the magical stars of TDO's Cinderella (2004) for another glorious tale of scheming rivals, hopeful secrets and tender hearts. A joyful and exhuberant holiday treat featuring the much anticipated American debut of Giorgio Caoduro in the title role! Click here to learn more.

Where have I heard THAT before?
Everywhere! You heard Figaro's signature aria, "Largo al factotum" in Mrs. Doubtfire (1993) and The Godfather (1972), and the famous Rossini overture in the closing credits of Help! (1965), as well as in film fare ranging from A Fish Called Wanda (1988) and Bad Santa (2003) to Space Jam (1996) and Robots (2005).

Recommended Listening:
Rossini: THE BARBER OF SEVILLE — Hermann Prey, Teresa Berganza, Luigi Alva; Claudio Abbado on DG #457733 (Recorded in 1972).

Recommended Viewing:
The Warner Brothers cartoon classic, "The Rabbit of Seville."

Conversation Starter:
Rossini's masterpiece was a legendary opening night disaster! The audience was filled with hecklers who made fun of the composer's ostentatious clothing, the cat that wandered onstage, and the singer who tripped and gave himself a nosebleed just before he had to start singing!