Arrigo Boito: Mefistofele

Opera in four acts and a prologue and epilogue. Libretto by Arrigo Boito after the tragedy Faust by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe. First performed in Milan on arch 5, 1868; premiere of the revised version in Bologna on October 4, 1875.

Occupying the leading role in this seldom-performed opera telling the story of Faust is the Devil himself, Mefistofele. Singing the title role is the Italian bass Carlo Colombara. Dieter Kaegi the stage director sets the events in a 1930s cabaret. This production is a true tour de force for both the acting and the vocal skills of the Opera Festival Choir.

Faust makes a pact with Mefistofele: he will sell his soul in return for one perfect moment. With the help of his fiendish guide, Faust experiences both worldly and divine love, but not true fulfilment. As death approaches, he dreams of being the just ruler of heaven on earth. These pure thoughts finally rescue his soul – despite Mefistofele’s cunning tricks.

Performance

Cast

Dancers