Credits:

Michele Mariotti, Teatro Regio Torino Orchestra, Teatro Regio Torino Chorus, Giuseppe Giordani, Alex Esposito.

Description:

A historical drama about the First Crusade in the late 11th century. Alvino, the elder brother, and Pagano, the younger brother, fight fiercely over Viclinda, a beautiful woman. Pagano, who was banished from Milan for trying to kill his brother, is forgiven for his crime and returns to the city, but his desire for revenge against his brother does not stop and he kills his father by mistake and is banished again. At the same time, his brother Alvino is in the midst of a battle as the leader of a crusade. The enemy plundered Giselda, the daughter born to him and Viclinda, but Giselda was actually in love with Oronte, a prince of the enemy kingdom. After losing Oronte in a fierce battle, a mysterious hermit appears before Giselda... Verdi's "The Lombards of the First Crusade" is a profound tale of national liberation from oppression and the feud between brothers of Roman nobility, set in 11th century Milan. However, the political criticism and religious themes in the work were considered problematic, and the Cardinal of Milan appealed to the Austrian magistrate, causing various problems before the production.Unfortunately, it is not often performed in modern times, but this 2018 production, directed by Pralafera, faithfully recreates 11th century Milan by using beautiful equipment and costumes in keeping with the period style. The production makes excellent use of color and shades of light to great effect. Conductor Mariotti expresses the power and passion of the work, and the singers, including veteran singer Esposito, give enthusiastic performances. Naxos Japan