I Capuleti e I Montecchi (Bellini)

Opera Ireland's concert performance of Bellini's bel canto opera ‘I Capuleti e I Montecchi' gives a different interpretation of the tragedy of the star-crossed lovers. The story is based on Italian Renaissance sources rather than the Shakespearean play; therefore divergences in the operas title, plot and characters are evident.

In this version of the story the Capuleti and Montecchi are rival political factions rather than Shakespeare's 'two households, both alike in dignity'. Capellio is the father of Giulietta and the leader of the Capuleti. Giulietta is promised to Tebaldo however she has already fallen in love with Romeo, leader of the Montecchi. This has been concealed from all but Lorenzo, her doctor and confidant. Matters are further complicated when Romeo inadvertently kills the son of Capellio (Giulietta's brother) in battle.

Soprano Jessica Pratt sings the role of Giulietta with Fiona Murphy as her ill-fated lover Romeo. Portugese tenor Bruno Ribeiro makes his Irish debut in the role of Tebaldo while Eric Martin-Bonnet returns to sing the role of Capellio, following his Opera Ireland debut last season as The Bonze in Madama Butterfly.

The RTE Concert Orchestra will be conducted by Italian maestro, Manlio Benzi, in this feast of melodic story-telling and dazzling singing.