La Bohème, Opera by G. Puccini
Emotion in music is so universal that a single instrument can often pluck at our heartstrings just as well as a full orchestra. A special performance of Giacomo Puccini’s La Bohème by I Virtuosi dell'opera di Roma at the Sala Umberto Theatre in Rome demonstrates that perfectly. This complete staging of the famous opera, including a cast of talented singers, elaborate sets, and appropriate outfits is backed solely by a piano. Maestro Umberto Cipolla is tasked with performing Puccini's intricate and stirring orchestral arrangements at the keyboard. It is safe to say he rises to the occasion. Ever since its debut at the Teatro Regio in Turin on 1 February 1896, La Bohème has enjoyed audiences’ and critics’ favour. I Virtuosi dell’opera di Roma show the work’s unique colours from an unexpected new angle.
Puccini worked with his faithful librettist duo Giuseppe Giacosa and Luigi Illica for close to three years to produce La Bohème. Scènes de la vie de bohème, a collection of Henri Murger's vignettes of bohemian life in Paris' Latin Quarter, served as the opera’s source text. Giacosa and Illica singled out the seamstress Mimì and the poet Rodolfo as the main characters even though Murger's original lacks a clear-cut plot or a cast of primary or secondary players. While a motley crew of bohemians provide comic relief, the two lovers fly high on the wings of love, only to crash into the harsh reality of Mimì’s progressing consumption and Rodolfo’s lack of financial means to help her. He does the only thing imaginable, letting his love go so she can find a wealthier man to take better care of her. The sacrifice is in vain, however, as true love knows nothing of money, health, or even death.
La Bohème's complex emotional tapestry finds a unique new arrangement at Rome's Sala Umberto Theatre. The piano replacing the traditional orchestra provides more breathing space for Puccini’s inspired melodies. The arias and love duets acquire a different quality, and the instrumental passages evoke new feelings and reactions, too, all thanks to Umberto Cipolla's deft touch. A classic opera in fresh and minimalist form, including English subtitles to ensure you follow the exciting storyline.