Music and libretto by Ruggero Leoncavallo

When a commedia dell’arte troupe arrives in a small Italian village, they are greeted by cheers of welcome. Makeup and costumes transform actors from commoners into clowns, but the infidelity of one wife and the fury of her husband cannot be concealed. Comedy turns to tragedy when jealousy rages, lovers are revealed, and the curtain comes down on murder.

Known for the iconic aria “Vesti la giubba,” this classic Italian verismo (“slice of life”) opera opens our season with unmatched music and drama. Set in 1930s Italy, our “visually arresting” (The Independent) production features artful sets and traditional commedia dell’arte costumes.