Tosca

Rome, 1800. The French Revolution is making waves in Italy – energetically resisted by the Church. The painter Cavaradossi has received a commission for an altarpiece depicting Mary Magdalene. When his lover Floria Tosca notices that the figure in the painting resembles a woman who has been praying in the church, it inflames her jealousy. In addition, a revolutionary named Angelotti has escaped from the state prison and is seeking refuge with his old friend Cavaradossi.

The chief of police, Baron Scarpia, is in pursuit of Angelotti. Taking advantage of Tosca’s jealousy, he tries to prise more information out of her – not least because he desires her. Instead of Angelotti, the painter is arrested. Tosca is questioned and Cavaradossi begs her not to reveal anything. He is then taken next door and tortured until Tosca gives in. After his ordeal, Cavaradossi declares he is for the revolution and is condemned to death. Tosca takes it upon herself to save him and makes a deal with Scarpia…

Silvia Gatto’s traditional production of the opera won the hearts of audiences in Bonn. After visiting the Antipolis Théâtre d’Antibes in France, there’s now another chance to see the production in Bonn.