Lincs: Russian stars to present Verdi’s tragic masterpiece Rigoletto at Lincoln Theatre Royal

Sung in Italian with English subtitles, one of Verdi’s most popular operas will be brought to life by an impressive cast an live orchestra of more than 30 musicians.

Often described as Verdi’s first work of complete genius, Rigoletto is particularly noted for its subtle and highly original characterisation, especially in the case of the tragic court jester, Rigoletto himself.

The tragic story revolves around the hunchbacked court jester, Rigoletto, his beautiful much-loved daughter Gilda (whom he had kept secret from the Court) and the Duke of Mantua he serves.

However, Rigoletto’s sarcastic comments and participation in the Duke’s escapades have won him many enemies among the Duke’s followers.

Count Monterone, furious that his family has been shamed by the Duke’s seduction of his daughter, ruins the jolly party and is arrested, cursing the Duke and Rigoletto.

Count Ceprano, not amused by Rigoletto’s constant humiliating remarks, and thinking that Gilda is Rigoletto’s mistress, plots an immediate revenge and persuades his followers to kidnap Gilda and take her to the Duke.

Rigoletto goes to his daughter’s rescue but is mocked by the nobles for his troubles.

After comforting his daughter, Rigoletto vows to be avenged on the Duke and hires a hit man.

The curse comes to fruition when Gilda falls in love with the Duke and eventually sacrifices her life to save him from the assassin hired by her father.

A succession of stunning songs, including the famous La donna è mobile, combined with an ever-present underlying tension and menace in a plot involving abduction, seduction and revenge, makes Rigoletto a stunning spectacle.

Alexej Ignatow, producer of The Russian State Ballet and Opera House says: “Opera has been able to take advantage of the high-tech revolution in home entertainment, television and cinema and more and more people are discovering it.”

“However, nothing can replace the pleasure to attend a live performance, which is why we are dedicated to presenting full and positive new productions in regional theatres.”

“We want to give the opportunity to local audiences to experience these classics at a fraction of the cost they would pay in big cities, give them great pleasure and inspire them to want more.”

“We often get asked how you would encourage people who have never seen an opera before, to come along for the first time?2

“My instant reply is that you don’t need to be an expert in opera or music as we ensure that the set and costumes, and subtitles, make the production easy to follow.”

“The music is beautiful and sometimes even if you’re lost in the plot, just close your eyes and enjoy the music.”

Rigoletto is on at the Theatre Royal on 9th February at 7.30pm.

Tickets priced £27.50 (£25.50 concessions) are available from the box office on 01522 519999 or at www.lincolntheatreroyal.com