By Guiseppe Verdi.

Up to his usual machinations, braggart, con-man and habitual liar SirJohn Falstaff attempts to woo two married noblewomen at the same timein the hope of procuring both their fortunes. Disguises,cross-dressing, plots and counterplots ensue but Falstaff ’s scheme isuncovered and the women exact their revenge. Dominic Hill, Director ofDundee Repertory Theatre, directs this new production which promises tobe pure fun yet in the finest Verdi tradition.

The Company is delightedto welcome Dominic back after the success of his touring production ofMacbeth in 2005. Peter Sidhom (whom audiences will remember for histowering Alberich in Scottish Opera’s Ring Cycle) makes his debut inthe role of Falstaff, ably supported by a stellar cast. Based on acharacter in Shakespeare’s The Merry Wives of Windsor, Sir JohnFalstaff’s larger than life appetites and self-indulgences strike achord of universal recognition. There’s something of him in everyone,allowing both laughter at and a degree of sympathy for an otherwiselecherous character.

Verdi’s last opera, Falstaff was premiered inMilan in 1893 and was an immediate popular and critical success. It notonly displays Verdi’s exquisite melodic invention but also an amazingyouthful spirit for a man who was, at that point, into his ninth decade.
Supported by the Alexander Gibson Circle.

SUNG IN ITALIAN

Courtesy of SeeGlasgow.com .