by InTrieste
Amid the enchanting fusion of sea and mountains, the historic city of Trieste is set to celebrate its rich musical heritage with the return of “La Contessa Maritza” at the G. Verdi Theater. This production marks a significant collaboration between the Fondazione Teatro Lirico Giuseppe Verdi and the International Operetta Association, commemorating a hundred years since the operetta’s premiere in 1924 at Vienna’s Theater an der Wien.
“La Contessa Maritza” (Gräfin Mariza), a three-act operetta by Julius Brammer and Alfred Grünwald with music by Emmerich Kálmán, has been adored since its debut for its elegant synthesis of Viennese tradition and Hungarian folk music. The Verdi Orchestra and Chorus will be under the baton of the young and talented Stephanie Praduroux, leading an international cast of exceptional voices.
A Modern Revival with Historical Roots
This new Trieste production, a rarity on contemporary stages, aims to recreate the operetta’s original charm while introducing fresh interpretations under the vibrant direction of Andrea Binetti. Binetti, who also takes the stage as Baron Kolomán Zsupán, is known for his dynamic and popular musical-comedy touches. Noemi Gaggi, a long-time collaborator of Binetti, will handle the choreography, ensuring a lively and engaging performance.
The cast features Serbian soprano Ana Petricevic as Countess Maritza, tenor Alessandro Scotto di Luzio as Count Tassilo Endrödy-Wittenburg, and a mix of established and rising stars including Danae Rikos, Ariella Reggio, and Francesca Micarelli. This blend of seasoned performers and fresh talent highlights the theatre’s commitment to fostering new voices while honoring its storied traditions.
Honoring the Past, Embracing the Future
Admired by the likes of Toscanini for its refined orchestration, “La Contessa Maritza” integrates elements of Hungarian and gypsy music, notably the csárdás dance rhythm, with influences from George Gershwin, whom Kálmán encountered during his time in Vienna. This fusion of styles captures the multicultural vibrancy of the Austro-Hungarian Empire’s twilight, offering a resonant experience for contemporary audiences.
Artistic Director Paolo Rodda expresses the theatre’s vision: “We are thrilled to contribute to the continuation of Small Lyric in our city by designing casts that bridge our unique city tradition with young, talented voices from European opera stages. Our goal is to create an ideal synthesis that meets the expectations of both our local audience and the many Central European tourists who visit our theatre.”
Superintendent Giuliano Polo underscores the collective effort behind this summer’s programming: “The great effort to animate Trieste’s summer culminates with ‘Contessa Maritza,’ a true gem of 20th-century musical culture. We are pleased with the audience’s reaction to our innovative offerings, such as the opera at Castel San Giusto, and the enthusiasm shown by our artistic staff, who have tackled diverse repertoires with exceptional dedication and creativity.”
Performance Details
“La Contessa Maritza” will be performed at the G. Verdi Theatre on Thursday, August 8, and Saturday, August 10 at 8:30 PM, and Sunday, August 11 at 6:00 PM. Tickets range from 15 to 45 euros.
For information, reservations, and ticket purchases, contact the Verdi Theatre Box Office at 800-898-868, email boxoffice@teatroverdi-trieste.com, or visit www.teatroverdi-trieste.com. Tickets are also available through the Vivaticket circuit.
