Legendary opera “Norma” returns to Hong Kong in July, presented by Musica Viva
Opera enthusiasts in Hong Kong will be treated to Bellini’s “Norma”, one of the undisputed masterpieces of the bel canto repertoire, from July 2 to 4, 2021. Produced and directed by the “Father of Western Opera in Hong Kong” Professor Lo Kingman, the production will mark the debut of the Musica Viva Orchestra, under the baton of celebrated conductor Vivian Ip.
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Presented by Musica Viva and staged at Hong Kong City Hall, Concert Hall, the upcoming classical production of “Norma” by Professor Lo is the second revival of this captivating opera since its 1989 premiere in Hong Kong. The vocally challenging roles of Norma, Pollione and Adalgisa will be performed by two casts of renowned international singers.
“Norma” is a tragic opera in two acts by Vincenzo Bellini (1801 - 1835) with the libretto by Felice Romani (1788 - 1865), adapted from the play “Norma, or The Infanticide” by French poet Alexandre Soumet (1788 - 1845). Since its premiere at the famed La Scala in Milan, Italy in 1831, this leading example of the bel canto genre has been mesmerising audiences around the world.
The universal theme of inner struggle over love and betrayal always resonates. Set in Roman-occupied Gaul amidst the Gallic people’s uprising against the occupiers, “Norma” is centred on the love triangle between the high priestess Norma, her lover Pollione, the Roman proconsul of Gaul, and the novice priestess Adalgisa. In defiance of her father the Druid Oroveso - the leader of the uprising - and breaking her chastity vow, Norma has been secretly married to Pollione and borne him two children. After discovering that Pollione has fallen in love with her friend Adalgisa, Norma is enraged and contemplating revenge by killing her two children. However, Norma’s maternal love causes her to recoil from the terrible act of filicide. Instead, she tries to convince Pollione to return to her. This compelling tragedy grips the audience with many questions: will Adalgisa end up betraying Norma and fleeing with Pollione? And will Norma call the Gallic warriors to war against the Romans and kill Pollione?
