Puccini’s “Tosca,” performed and filmed live in high definition at New York’s Metropolitan Opera House, will be shown on Lakeside Little Theatre’s state-of-the-art screen from December 21 to 23.
Tosca features an electrifying plot, mesmerizing music, rich characters, and stunning sets. The opera includes two enduring favorites: Cavaradossi’s triumphant “Vittoria! Vittoria!” and Tosca’s heart-wrenching aria, “Vissi d’arte.”
Composed in 1899, Tosca is Puccini’s operatic adaptation of Victorien Sardou’s stage play. The story unfolds during a turbulent period when Napoleon’s army was defending the ideals of the French Republic, soon to become an Empire.
Scarpia, the opera’s male lead, is played by acclaimed baritone Quinn Kelsey. Opera Wire praised Kelsey, noting that he “commands the stage with his deep baritone, perfectly suited for the character’s declamatory vocals. Lust consumes him, not simply for sexual pleasure, but for destruction, particularly that of women unfortunate enough to catch his eye. Scarpia is a master at finding weaknesses and exploiting them.”
The drama reaches its climax when Scarpia tries to dominate Tosca, the female lead portrayed by Lise Davidsen. In a moment of desperation, she defends herself with a knife, transforming the villain into an almost pitiable figure. The Washington Post called Davidsen “the world’s most in-demand soprano,” lauding her “astonishingly rich” voice and ability to move seamlessly between high drama and wry comedy.
Since its debut at the Metropolitan Opera in 1901, Tosca has remained a staple in the repertoire, beloved by seasoned opera fans and newcomers alike. Puccini’s music, more accessible to modern audiences than earlier works like those of Mozart, continues to captivate. The Guardian has praised Puccini’s skill, noting, “His musical ambition and theatrical punch are masterly.”
Tosca will be shown at LLT at 4 p.m. on Saturday, December 21; Sunday, December 22; and Monday, December 23. Reserved seats are 350 pesos and can be purchased at lakesidelittletheatre.com.