Simon Boccanegra (2010)
Verdi's monumental opera of power and loss, captured live in Parma as part of the celebrated Tutto Verdi series.
Simon Boccanegra - Movie Information
- Original Title: Simon Boccanegra
- Release Year: 2010
- Directed by: Tiziano Mancini, Marina Bianchi et al.
- Type: Movie
- Genres: Music
- Runtime: 2h 17m
- Original Language: Italian
- Spoken Languages: Italian
- Production Countries: Italy
Simon Boccanegra - Plot
Part of Tutto Verdi series - Simon Boccanegra (2010) Parma. Revised version (1881). 'Simon Boccanegra' is an opera with a prologue and three acts by Giuseppe Verdi to an Italian libretto by Francesco Maria Piave, based on the play 'Simón Bocanegra' (1843) by Antonio García Gutiérrez, whose play 'El trovador' had been the basis for Verdi's 1853 opera, 'Il trovatore'. Simon Boccanegra was first performed at Teatro La Fenice in Venice on 12 March 1857.
Simon Boccanegra - Cast & Crew
Director(s)
- Tiziano Mancini
- Marina Bianchi
- Giorgio Gallione
Main Cast
- Leo Nucci
- Roberto Scandiuzzi
- Tamar Iveri
- Francesco Meli
- Simone Piazzola
Writers
- Arrigo Boito
- Francesco Maria Piave
Simon Boccanegra - FAQs
What is Simon Boccanegra about?
Simon Boccanegra is a Verdi opera with a prologue and three acts, set in medieval Genoa. It follows the rise and tragic fate of Simon Boccanegra, a corsair who becomes Doge of Genoa. The story weaves together political intrigue, family secrets, and doomed love, culminating in betrayal and death.
Who sings the title role in the 2010 Parma production?
The title role of Simon Boccanegra in this 2010 Parma production is performed by the celebrated Italian baritone Leo Nucci, one of the most acclaimed interpreters of Verdi baritone roles in his generation. His portrayal is considered a defining performance of his distinguished career.
Is Simon Boccanegra based on a true story?
Yes, partially. The opera is based on Antonio García Gutiérrez's 1843 play, which drew inspiration from the real historical figure Simone Boccanegra, the first Doge of Genoa in the 14th century. Verdi and his librettists added dramatic fictional elements, including the romantic and family storylines central to the opera.
Which version of the opera is performed in this recording?
This 2010 Parma production presents the revised 1881 version of Simon Boccanegra, which Verdi reworked with librettist Arrigo Boito. The revision significantly strengthened the opera, most notably adding the celebrated Council Chamber scene, widely regarded as one of Verdi's greatest dramatic achievements.
Who are the main cast members in Simon Boccanegra?
The principal cast features Leo Nucci as Simon Boccanegra, Roberto Scandiuzzi as Jacopo Fiesco (also known as Andrea Grimaldi), Tamar Iveri as Amelia Grimaldi, Francesco Meli as Gabriele Adorno, and Simone Piazzola as Paolo.
What is the Tutto Verdi series?
Tutto Verdi is a landmark project that filmed all 28 of Giuseppe Verdi's operas in live performance at the Teatro Regio in Parma, Italy, to celebrate the composer's bicentenary. The series offers a comprehensive filmed archive of Verdi's complete operatic output, performed by leading international singers.
Who wrote the libretto for Simon Boccanegra?
The original 1857 libretto was written by Francesco Maria Piave, based on Antonio García Gutiérrez's play. When Verdi revised the opera in 1881, the distinguished poet and composer Arrigo Boito rewrote substantial portions of the libretto, greatly deepening the drama and character development.
What are similar operas or films to watch?
Viewers who enjoy this production may also appreciate Otello (1992), Der Rosenkavalier (2007), Les Contes D'Hoffmann (2008), Carmen (2002), William Tell (1987), and The Mikado (1983), all of which offer comparable filmed opera experiences from the classical and Romantic repertoire.
More About Simon Boccanegra
Explore further details about this production through these authoritative resources.