The Drama of Tosca

Music by Giacomo Puccini
Libretto by Luigi Illica and Giuseppe Giacosa
Adaption by Francesco Micheli
Sung in Italian with English supertitles, spoken narration in English

The performances have reached capacity and are no longer on sale. The Drama of Tosca will be available on the Opera Philadelphia Channel beginning June 17.

In a special concert adaptation, the tragic tale of Tosca takes on a completely new dimension. Seen through the eyes of an omniscient narrator, this innovative version of Puccini’s beloved work bridges opera and storytelling, highlighting major themes from the original. Created to address concerns around audience and artist safety, The Drama of Tosca is 90 minutes (with no intermission) and focuses on the three principal characters. They are joined by the spoken narrator, full orchestra, and adult chorus.

GRAMMY Award-winning soprano Ana María Martínez makes her company and role debuts as the fiery opera singer Floria Tosca, who takes matters into her own hands when the dreaded chief of police Baron Scarpia (baritone Quinn Kelsey in his company and role debuts) hunts for her lover, the zealous painter Mario Cavaradossi (tenor Brian Jagde in his company debut). Maestro Corrado Rovaris, Opera Philadelphia’s Jack Mulroney Music Director, conducts 68 players from the Opera Philadelphia Orchestra, while 40 chorus singers perform from the balcony.

Opera Philadelphia is thrilled to resume live performances with this unique presentation at one of the country’s largest open-air music centers. The piece is a dedication to all who, as Tosca sings in the famous aria “Vissi d’arte,” devote themselves to art, particularly in challenging times.

Safety precautions will include mandatory masks, reduced audience capacity, physical distancing, and a mandatory self-health assessment. Concessions will be closed and food and beverages will not be allowed.