Resumption of the show staged on Rai 5 channel in December 2020, during the period of pandemic and restrictions, Otello is back on the bill at Maggio, in Valerio Binasco's version. Following the success of Aida, Verdi decided to retire. His work had given him everything: glory, money and eternal fame. With Aida, he had the opportunity of withdrawing after the successful period of 19th century melodrama, having for too long suffered the weight of the crisis in musical theatre that struggled to find new dramaturgic and formal outlets. But his encounter with the energetic Arrigo Boito led the Maestro of Busseto back to opera. Verdi, like Boito, longed for experimental and innovative forms of poetry, and was already yearning for the emancipation of melodrama from the number opera format. The understanding between the two men emerged through Shakespeare, a writer that Verdi had loved and pursued for his entire life. The first result of the fortunate collaboration was Otello, which made its triumphant debut at the Scala in Milan on 5 February 1887. At the age of 74, Verdi demonstrated an amazing ability for renewal, interpreting the words of Boito in an unexpected and original manner. Having abandoned the ‘safety’ of the number opera format for the open form, the composer created a shifting and continuous musical flow. With a nod to Wagner and author to Italian theatrical tradition, Verdi thus marked the peak of his exceptional creative career.

Staging by Maggio Musicale Fiorentino

Thanks to Fondazione CR Firenze, the performance of 23/05/2023 is offered to the public with a 50% discount on tickets for each sector

The performance of May 26, 2023, will be broadcast live on Rete Toscana Classica

Recoveries - 2020

PRESS RELEASE