Opera North perform Puccini's 'La fanciulla del West' - The Lowry!

Although the Italian opera composer Giacomo Puccini, considered his opera 'La fanciulla del West' (The Girl of the Golden West), to be one of his greatest works, I wouldn't consider this opera to be one of my favourite Puccini operas even though it does contain some fine arias (see video - 'chella mi creda' by Jussi Bjorling).

Since first being premiered at the New York Metropolitan in 1910, this 'cowboy' opera has received a mixed reception from critics and opera buffs and has become one of the less popular opera's, within the composer's repertoire.

The opera itself is set in the American Gold Rush of 1849. Minnie a " plucky, gun-toting, saloon owner plays surrogate mother to the rough crew of miners who frequent her bar, whilst batting back the affections of the local Sheriff. But when a mysterious stranger comes into her life, everything looks set to change... A tale of true love and second chances set in a world of gun fights, poker games and stagecoach robberies, La fanciulla del West combines the suspense and action of a great Western with the emotional punch of Italian opera."

Next month, (5-7 March 2014), Opera North are performing 'La fanciulla del West' at the Lowry in Salford. Adult tickets cost between £15 -£65 and performances start at 7.30 pm.

Lasts approximately 2 hours 30 mins
Sung in Italian with English titles
Supported by the Friends of Opera North