Giacomo Puccini: Tosca

Tosca is an opera by Giacomo Puccini set in Rome in June 1800, at a time when the Kingdom of Naples’s control of the Italian capital was threatened by Napoleon’s invasion of the Apennine Peninsula. It intertwines historical events with fictional characters, while Puccini’s music – through its vivid orchestration, daring harmonies and dramatic pacing – intensifies their personal and political struggles. The lasting appeal of Tosca stems from the composer’s technical mastery of musical form, blending a late Romantic sensibility with innovative modern expression. The title role will be interpreted through a selection of arias by the American-Canadian soprano Sondra Radvanovsky, who, with her wide vocal range and rich repertoire, is considered one of the leading interpreters of both bel canto and verismo – particularly in the operas of Giuseppe Verdi, whose works bridge the two styles. The part of Cavaradossi will once again be sung by Jonathan Tetelman, known for his dark-hued voice and dynamic stage presence. The American tenor signed an exclusive contract with Deutsche Grammophon in 2021. The role of Baron Scarpia will be performed by the Welsh bass-baritone Sir Bryn Terfel, a singer who was initially primarily associated with Mozart roles before dedicating himself to the more psychologically demanding roles of Puccini and Richard Wagner. The star-studded cast, the SNG Maribor Symphony Orchestra and the SNG Maribor Opera Chorus will be conducted by the Lithuanian maestro Modestas Pitrėnas, a graduate of the Mozarteum University, who currently leads the Lithuanian National Symphony Orchestra.