Tosca

Puccini’s TOSCA was first performed at the Teatro Costanzi in Rome on 14th January 1890 and is arguably one of the top ten most popular operas of all time. Its drama and sheer musical lyricism are compelling – so much so that it has inspired countless leading opera singers to give thrilling and unforgettable performances, Maria Callas and Tito Gobbi to name just two.

Tosca, premiered at a time of unrest in Rome, had its first performance delayed for a day for fear of disturbances. But, despite this and indifferent reviews from the critics, the opera was an immediate success with the public and has remained so ever since. Its numerous popular arias are often heard outside of the opera house.

The power of Puccini’s score and the inventiveness of his orchestration are astonishing and the dramatic force of Tosca and its characters continues to fascinate both performers and audiences alike.

Surrey Opera, who have recently received much praise for their production of Cornish composer George Lloyd’s opera Iernin, will bring a new production of Tosca(sung in English) to Minack – possibly a perfect setting for this dramatic and gripping work! Jonathan Butcher directs and conducts.

“In recent years Surrey Opera has begun boxing above its weight artistically – its première of Coleridge-Taylor’s Thelma in 2012 was a coup that marked the company out as one to watch for appealing and artistically visionary planning. George Lloyd’s Iernin is a similarly bold choice, mounted in commemoration of the composer’s centenary……… but it was the chorus and orchestra that made this a performance to remember. The chorus was the most potent force on stage, and the evening really came to life with its zesty and heartfelt opening of the second half. And the orchestra was superb: the conductor Jonathan Butcher has honed a terrific ensemble, whose account of this deeply textured score was as fine as could be imagined on this scale.” Opera Magazine, January 2014