Significant French Operas

Titles beginning with V

La Vestale

Opera in 3 acts

Music by Gasparo Spontini

Libretto by Étienne de Jouy

First Performance: Paris - Académie impériale, Paris, December 16, 1807

Cast:
Licinio                                                         Lyric Dramatic Tenor
Giulia                                                          Dramatic Soprano
Cinna                                                           Tenor or Baritone
High Priest                                                 Bass
A Consul                                                     Bass
Chorus: SSATB
Ballet: Act I, as extensive and elaborate as desired; also at end.

Background

Synopsis

     Although Licinio and Giulia love each other, she becomes a Vestal Virgin while he is fighting in Gaul. When he returns in triumph, she is chosen to place the wreath of laurel on his brow. He breaks into the temple to win her back; in her preoccupation with him, she allows the sacred fire to go out. In the ensuing confusion, Licinio is rescued by his friend Cinna, Captain of the Legion, but Giulia is condemned to death. The High Priest gives her a black veil as she is led to her tomb. But a flash of lightning rekindles the flame; Giulia is pardoned and reunited with Licinio.

Libretto

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Last updated: January 08, 2008