Let's hear it for Nabucco's debut at the Sferisterio

Applause and standing ovations greeted the premiere of Nabucco at the Sferisterio, marking the opening of the 62nd Macerata Opera Festival. The performance, held at the Arena, featured a new production developed in collaboration with the Fondazione Pergolesi Spontini of Jesi. The evening saw a completely sold-out audience, drawn to the dramatic and visual spectacle of Giuseppe Verdi’s opera. The production, directed by Paul-Emile Fourny, presented a striking interpretation of the story, using innovative staging techniques to create a sense of timelessness. Set designers Benito Leonori and video artist Mario Spinaci contributed to this vision through large-scale projections of ancient tablets and moving rock formations, evoking the imagery of a primordial desert. These elements symbolized the eternal struggle between peoples, unable to understand one another, projected into a universal and timeless context. The stage design included a monumental replica of the Istar gate originally located in Babylon, reinforcing the historical and cultural weight of the setting. Visual motifs emphasized the four classical elements, air, water, earth, and fire, while scenes such as the famous “Va pensiero” chorus, performed by the Lirico Marchigiano Choir under the direction of Christian Starinieri, were accompanied by images reminiscent of the Wailing Wall. These moments offered rare emotional depth and visual richness, enhancing the overall experience. Costume designer Giovanna Fiorentini created a distinctive aesthetic blending elements from both the Conan the Barbarian and the post-apocalyptic style of the Mad Max series. This approach was particularly evident in the costumes of Nabucco and Abigaille, while the simpler tunics worn by the Israelites ranged in color from green to beige, harmonizing seamlessly with the desert backdrop. The result was a refined yet powerful visual language that complemented the narrative. The production also incorporated a large ensemble of performers, including nearly seventy choristers, ten mime artists, and additional extras who helped mark key moments of the plot alongside the main protagonists. This dynamic presence ensured that the vast arena stage remained fully occupied throughout the performance, creating an immersive atmosphere for the audience. The vocal performances were equally impressive, with a well-balanced and cohesive cast delivering strong interpretations. Soprano Anastasia Bartoli, in the role of Abigaille, and Mongolian baritone Ariun Gambataar, portraying Nabucco, stood out for their vocal mastery and acting skills. Their contributions were matched by the consistent excellence of other singers, including Alberto Comes as Zaccaria, Alessandro Scotto Di Luzio as Ismaele, Laura Verecchia as Fenena, Renzo Ran as the High Priest of Belo, Simone Fenotti as Abdallo, and Alessia Camarin as Anna. All received enthusiastic applause and deserved ovations, reflecting the high quality of the entire cast. Conductor Fabrizio Maria Carminati led the Orchestra Filarmonica Marchigiana with precision, ensuring that each musical passage supported the dramatic arc of the opera. The orchestra's performance was punctuated by moments of intense emotion, particularly during the climactic scenes, which resonated deeply with the audience. The production will be reprised on July 26, August 1, and August 9, offering further opportunities for audiences to experience this visually rich and emotionally compelling interpretation of Verdi’s classic work.