Tosca

Why Watch Tosca

Giacomo Puccini, an Italian composer, is often considered to be one of the very best composers of all time. His most famous works include Madama Butterfly, Turandot, La Boheme, and Tosca, which continue to be staples in opera companies across the world. Tosca contains several dark elements, including murder, torture, and suicide and is renowned for the inventiveness of the orchestration. The dramatic force of Tosca is something that has fascinated performers and audiences for more than a century, and the seamless use of arias, choruses and recitative makes for a breathtaking experience. Tosca’s melodramatic plot is gripping, and all three main characters are given ample opportunities to shine vocally.

Anna Netrebko, one of the most well-known figures of the operatic world takes on the role of Tosca. Her performance as Tosca is 2018 won her critical acclaim, with critics calling her the perfect casting of the quintessential diva. David McVicar’s execution in 2018 was flawless and he nailed the torture scene where the two lovers talk to each other. The costume design is spot on, with John Macfarlane giving Tosca an imposing appearance, something that befits the character. The portrayal of Scarpia has also been very well received, and the demonic character’s true intentions are apparent from the very first scene he appears on stage.

The Story

Cesare Angelotti has escaped from prison and rushes into the Sant’Andrea della Valle church, where his sister has hidden the key to the family’s private chapel. Mario Cavaradossi, a painter arrives at the church to work on a portrait that was inspired by Angelotti’s sister, Marchesa Attavanti. Angelotti emerges, and Cavaradossi promises help and escorts him back inside the chapel when he hears Floria Tosca, his lover call from outside. Tosca accuses Cavaradossi of being unfaithful when she recognizes Attavanti in the painting, but he reassures her of his love.

Meanwhile, cannons are sounded in the distance to alert the police about the escape. The two men escape to Cavaradossi’s home. The chief of the secret police, Baron Scarpia arrives at the church searching for Angelotti, and he finds a fan that has the Attavanti crest on it, which he shows Tosca. Her suspicions about Cavaradossi’s infidelity confirmed, she vows vengeance and leaves the church. Scarpia sends his men after her, suspecting that Angelotti is hiding with Cavaradossi.

Will Cavaradossi reveal the whereabouts of Angelotti? Does the scheming Scarpia, who has taken a liking to Tosca, have anything in mind to bend her to his will?

Good For

Opera Buffs | Lovers of Dark Dramas | Fans of Giacomo Puccini