11/19/16 – GLIMMERGLASS – Thieving Magpie @1pm

Glimmerglass Festival

Thieving Magpie by Gioachino Rossini

Everyone seems to be in love with Ninetta, but when she takes the blame for a theft perpetrated by a bird, her life is turned upside down. This rarely heard comic opera boasts a dazzling score and sensational situations.

“Rossini’s The Thieving Magpie has all the hallmarks of a typical rescue opera – a heroine in distress, unjustly accused of a crime she did not commit; a dastardly and powerful lecher who offers freedom in return for her acquiescence; true love apparently thwarted; and a last-minute, photo-finish rescue. The fact that salvation comes in this case from a magpie (that occasionally talks) makes this all the more breathtaking…will Ninetta survive or won’t she? The deus ex machina from the animal kingdom adds just the right touch of spice and humor to this darkly thrilling tale.  Add in Rossini’s spectacular vocal writing, gorgeous melodies and one of the most famous overtures ever, and this is sure to be an exciting performance.” — Peter Kazaras, director

Presented in Italian with projected English text.