The Barber of Seville: Opera Explained by Thomson Smillie


The Barber of Seville: Opera Explained
Title : The Barber of Seville: Opera Explained
Author :
Rating :
ISBN : -
Language : English
Format Type : Audible Audio
Number of Pages : -
Publication : First published July 1, 2001

The Barber of Seville is Rossini's most popular opera. Its effervescent overture (written originally for another work!) presents a perfect platform for the amusing plot in which the barber, Figaro, stage-manages a romance between Count Almaviva and Rosina, and puts to flight the old suitor, Dr Bartolo. "Largo al Factotum" is one of the most popular arias in opera - nearly 200 years after its first performance it is still one of the great show-stoppers.

But why was the opera received with boos and catcalls at its first performance in 1816, and why did Rossini return to the plot and environment presented so sublimely by Mozart? Opera writer Thomson Smillie and actor David Timson present the background in their informative but entertaining manner.


The Barber of Seville: Opera Explained Reviews


  • Toofan

    Audiobook: Audio quality:Excellent; Narration:Excellent
    Basic information about Rossini's Barber of Seville. It might be interesting for those who haven't seen the Opera yet and haven't read any in-depth article about it.

  • Sophie

    Brief introduction of opera in one hour.