Tosca - Odeon of Herodes Atticus 2024
The Greek National Opera (GNO) opens this year’s Athens-Epidaurus Festival with one of the most beloved operas in its repertoire: Giacomo Puccini’s Tosca. This revival of the 2012 rendition of Tosca is to thrill audiences in four performances, which will take place at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus on the 1st, 2nd, 6th and 11th of June 2024.
Set in the early 1800s, the plot centers around the celebrated opera singer Floria Tosca, who is deeply in love with the painter Mario Caravadossi. Being pathologically jealous of her lover, she is manipulated by Baron Scarpia, a dark but immensely powerful figure who derives pleasure from the suffering of his victims. Eventually, Caravandossi is put to death, not only because of his political ideas but also on account of his relationship with Tosca, who Scarpia lusts after. Nobody escapes Scarpia’s carefully devised schemes.
This opera is captivating and dramatic, remaining absolutely true to the composer’s spirit, as well as to its historical context. The marvelous stage sets comprise a huge crucifix, a holy table and a painting studio, while the spectacular projections of famous landmarks of Rome, religious symbols and gripping videos give the production a cinematic flair.
Conducted by Philippe Auguin, Tosca is directed by Hugo de Ana, who has also designed the sets and costumes. Katerina Petsatodi serves as revival director, while the cast features world-renowned stars. More specifically, the role of Floria Tosca will be performed by the prominent sopranos Lise Lindstrom (1 and 6/06) and Celia Costea (2 and 11/06). That of Mario Caravandossi will be shared by the outstanding tenors Ricardo Massi (1 and 6/06) and Carl Tanner (2 and 11/06), while Scarpia will be portrayed by two highly acclaimed leading artists of the GNO, Tassis Christoyannis (1 and 6/06) and Yanni Yannissis (2 and 11/06). Alongside them, the audience will have the chance to enjoy the distinguished Greek soloists Tassos Apostolou, Petros Magoulas, Yannis Kalyvas and many more.