Set in 14th-century Genoa, Simon Boccanegra is a gripping story of political intrigue and personal tragedy. At its core is a decades-long feud between political rivals: Simon Boccanegra, former pirate and man of the people, and Jacopo Fiesco, a leading member of the nobility. But these enemies are bound together by the strongest of family ties: one is the father and the other the grandfather of the same woman, Amelia.

Opera North: Simon Boccanegra

Royal Liverpool Philharmonic

Opera North is thrilled to present its first-ever performances of Giuseppe Verdi's "Simon Boccanegra," a riveting opera set in 14th-century Genoa, filled with political intrigue and personal tragedy. This concert staging event will take place from April 24 to May 24, 2025, across various prestigious venues including St Georges Hall in Bradford, Royal Concert Hall in Nottingham, The Glasshouse in Gateshead, Liverpool Philharmonic Hall, Hull City Hall, and the Southbank Centre.

"Simon Boccanegra" tells the compelling story of a former pirate turned people's champion, Simon Boccanegra, and his decades-long feud with political rival and nobleman, Jacopo Fiesco. The twist in their tale comes from the deep family ties they share, with one being the father and the other the grandfather of Amelia, adding layers of love, loss, and reconciliation to the narrative. The opera, which premiered in 1857 and was later revised in 1881 by Verdi and librettist Arrigo Boito, is celebrated for its Shakespearean drama and contains Verdi’s passionate plea for peace and unity, especially in its famous Council Chamber scene.

The cast includes Roland Wood as Simon Boccanegra, Brindley Sherratt as Jacopo Fiesco, Andrés Presno as Gabriele Adorno, and Mandla Mndebele as Paolo Albiani, under the baton of conductor Antony Hermus and direction by PJ Harris. This production follows Opera North's acclaimed concert stagings of other large-scale Italian classics, promising an unmissable event for opera enthusiasts.

The opera will be sung in Italian with English subtitles, ensuring it is accessible to a wide audience. The running time is approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes. Ticket prices start from £16, with digital and printed programs available for purchase in advance. Additionally, Opera North offers various discounts and membership options, including season ticket packages and under 30s memberships, to make this cultural experience accessible to everyone.

For those eager to secure their seats early, booking dates vary by location, with priority booking available for Friends of Opera North. This is a unique opportunity to experience the dark-hued grandeur and excitement of Verdi's music live, in a production that promises to captivate with its intense emotion and dramatic storytelling.

PJ Harris

Events

Past events

May 11, 2025

Opera North: Simon Boccanegra · Royal Liverpool Philharmonic

Apr 24 - May 24, 2025

Simon Boccanegra · Opera North

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