The Barber of Seville – Act One.
The first act of the opera by Gioachino Rossini sees a whole chain of events: the Count of Almaviva asks for the help of Figaro, the Barber of Seville, to meet his beloved Rosina, but is thwarted by Don Bartolo who wants to marry her.
The action takes place in Seville. Count Almaviva (tenor) is in love with Rosina (contralto or soprano), the ward of Don Bartolo (buffo bass) who is always kept under strict supervision. In order to get close to Rosina, the Count calls on Figaro (baritone), a local barber, who gives Almaviva the idea of gaining entry to Bartolo's house disguised as a soldier in need of lodgings.
But Don Bartolo, who secretly hopes for the hand but most of all for the rich dowry of Rosina has heard from Don Basilio (bass), an impoverished music teacher, that the Count has arrived in Seville. When Almaviva turns up disguised as a soldier on his doorstep, Bartolo reveals his suspicions at once.
Meanwhile the Count, on a pretext, has succeeded in speaking, if only fleetingly, to Rosina. To conceal his noble rank, he tells her his name is Lindoro. After a series of amusing situations, which end in pandemonium, the police arrive, and this puts a stop to Almaviva's bid.
Theatre in Rome: classics and opera in Roma
The "Theatre in Rome" site has a list of the main classical music and opera performances in Rome. You can buy tickets on-line and find useful information on the capital’s theatres.
Rome’s Auditorium: music, concerts and events
Auditorium presents symphony orchestra and chamber music and also has a varied programme of jazz, pop, rock, world music, cinema openings, plays, art exhibitions and literary performances.
