In March 1893, shortly after the premiere of Manon Lescaut, Puccini met fellow composer Ruggiero Leoncavallo in a café. Puccini mentioned he was working on an opera based on Murger’s novel, La Bohème. Leoncavallo reminded him that he was also working on the same opera, having shown Puccini the libretto the previous winter. This led to a public dispute, with both composers racing to finish their versions. Puccini won, premiering his in Torino in February 1896, while Leoncavallo’s was produced in Venice the following year. Although initially more popular, Leoncavallo’s opera was overshadowed by Puccini’s La Bohème, which remains one of the most emotional works in the operatic repertoire.
Jean-Louis Grinda’s production at the Grimaldi Forum is visually stunning. The bohemian garret is transformed into a luxurious penthouse, and Café Momus is vibrant and colorful. Act 3, with its falling snow, effectively enhances the atmosphere. The transition between Acts 3 and 4 is creative and impactful. Under Marco Armiliato’s direction, the orchestra brings a rich intensity to the score.
Azerbaijani tenor Yusif Eyvazov sings a strong Rodolfo, delivering Nei cieli bigi and Che gelida manina with power, though his vocal palette could benefit from more nuance.
Russian soprano Anna Netrebko, making a highly anticipated return, shines as Mimi. Her rendition of Mi chiamano Mimi is full of emotion and vocal richness. At 52, she still captivates audiences with her ability to become every role she sings, and her Act 3 performance is heart-wrenching.
French baritone Florian Sempey gives a warm and appealing performance as Marcello, while Georgian soprano Nino Machaidze sings a lively and seductive Musetta. Georgian bass Giorgi Manoshvilli impresses as Colline with his beautiful coat aria. Italian baritone Biagio Pizzuti contributes well as Schaunard, completing the tight-knit group of friends.
The entire cast is outstanding, and Netrebko’s performance is a highlight. This co-production with the Royal Opera in Oman is likely to travel, and it is a production worth seeing.
Opera In Four Acts
Music by Giacomo Puccini (1858-1924)
Libretto Giuseppe Giacosa and Luigi Illica based on
Conducted by Marco Armiliato
Directed by Jean-Louis Grinda
Videos by Julien Soulier
First performance 1st February 1896 Teatro Regio, Turin.
Photo Credit Marco Borelli
Cast includes Anna Netrebko, Nino Machaidze, Yusif Eyvazov, Florian Sempey, Biagio Pizzuti, Giorgi Manoshvili
Running time 2 hours 15 minutes with one interval