The Friends of the Cooper Memorial Library will host Opera @ the Library on a special date of Monday, August 19, at 1:45 pm in room 108 B, presenting the premiere showing of Umberto Giordano’s Andrea Chenier. Andrea Chénier is a verismo opera in four acts set to an Italian libretto by Luigi Illica, and first performed on 28 March 1896 at La Scala, Milan.
The story is based loosely on the life of the French poet André Chénier (1762–1794), who was executed during the French Revolution. The character Carlo Gérard is partly based on Jean-Lambert Tallien, a leading figure in the Revolution. It remains popular with audiences, though less frequently performed than in the first half of the 20th century. One reason for its survival in the repertoire is the lyrical-dramatic music provided by Giordano for the tenor lead which gives a talented tenor opportunity to demonstrate his histrionic skill and flaunt his voice.
This is a free program with English subtitles and we hope to enhance your knowledge and appreciation of this beautiful art form. Light refreshments will be provided during the intermission for our guests.
or more information about Opera @ the Library programs and our other special events, please visit our web presence at https://sites.google.com/site/operaatthelibrary/, contact Dennis Smolarek at 352-536-2275 x2623 or email at operaatcooperlibrary@gmail.com.
