The Barber of Seville Rossini
Archived: 2021/2022Overview
Mischievous trickery and action-packed fun
Count Almaviva has fallen in love with Dr Bartolo’s ward Rosina, but her guardian has other ideas and wants to keep her for himself. Almaviva enlists the help of local barber, Figaro, to outwit his plan, and through a series of comical events and deception Figaro takes on the role of matchmaker. Will he save the day and true love prevail?
Welsh National Opera’s much-loved production of The Barber of Seville – set around a traditional Spanish piazza – partners wonderfully with Rossini’s witty and expressive melodies. With an unforgettable score including Figaro’s Aria, this is the perfect feel-good opera.
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Bachtrack
Libretto translation © Estate of Robert David MacDonald 1986. Copyright agent: Alan Brodie Representation Ltd alanbrodie.com
WNO’s Autumn 2021 performances of The Barber of Seville are dedicated with gratitude to the memory of Clive Richards
WNO’s 75th anniversary supported by Colwinston Charitable Trust
Good to know
Sung in English, with English and Welsh surtitles.
Under 16s
£5 when accompanied by a full price adult tickets (subject to availability)
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Synopsis
Outside Dr Bartolo’s house, Count Almaviva (disguised as Lindoro, a student) serenades Rosina. Local barber Figaro arrives and tells Almaviva that Rosina is kept locked away as Bartolo hopes to marry her himself to get her money. The Count and Figaro make plans to get into the house.
Lindoro’s voice has captured Rosina’s heart. Figaro encourages Rosina to write a letter to ‘Lindoro’, promising to deliver it.
Almaviva arrives disguised as a soldier. He slips Rosina a letter, but the situation escalates, bringing the police. His arrest is prevented when he surreptitiously reveals his rank.
Almaviva re-enters the house disguised as ‘Don Alonso’, apprentice of Don Basilio, who he claims has fallen ill. To gain Bartolo’s trust, Don Alonso shows him Rosina’s letter to Almaviva. Figaro arrives to shave Bartolo. Don Basilio appears, but is persuaded that he is ill and must leave. Rosina and ‘Lindoro’ plan to run away. Bartolo overhears them and flies into a rage.
Bartolo tells Rosina that ‘Lindoro’ is an agent for Almaviva, who wants to marry her for money. Overwhelmed, she agrees to marry Bartolo. Figaro and Almaviva sneak in and Almaviva reveals his true identity. Basilio arrives with the notary, and is bribed to witness Almaviva’s marriage to Rosina leaving Bartolo obliged to admit defeat and join in the celebrations.