Falstaff

Sir John Falstaff considers himself irresistible: using identical love letters, he attempts to win over several ladies at once. But the shrewd women of Windsor are not so easily taken for fools…

Shakespeare’s famous bon vivant and his ill-fated romantic escapades have inspired many composers, from Salieri to Nicolai to Verdi. Michael William Balfe’s setting is a true rediscovery. The Irishman, himself a celebrated opera singer and personally acquainted with Rossini, was also extremely successful as a composer in Victorian England. His experiences as a singer are clearly reflected in his works. He wrote the Italian-language FALSTA FF in the bel canto style, which premiered in London in 1838. The work is brimming with melodic charm: catchy melodies and breathtaking coloratura are masterfully combined with the sparkling humour of William Shakespeare.

With the Swiss premiere of this rarely performed opera, Franco Trinca returns to TOBS! as guest conductor. The production is directed by TOBS! Artistic Director Dieter Kaegi.