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Met Opera Revives Bellini's I Puritani After 50 Years

1/3/2026

Summary

Met Opera's New Staging

The Metropolitan Opera opened a new production of Vincenzo Bellini's I Puritani on New Year's Eve, its first staging in nearly 50 years.
Directed by Charles Edwards, the production stars Lisette Oropesa as Elvira and Lawrence Brownlee as Arturo.
Critics praise Oropesa's vocal agility and emotional depth, while Brownlee shows range.
Set during the English Civil War, it explores madness and love and runs through January 18.

Summary

Rucinski Shines in I Puritani

Artur Rucinski's performance as Riccardo in I Puritani received acclaim for its conversational delivery and emotional depth.
His standout Act I sequence captivated audiences, showcasing his expressive talent.
Rucinski's naturalness complemented Lisette Oropesa and Lawrence Brownlee, forming a strong ensemble.
Rucinski and Van Horn's comic chemistry helped navigate staging, including face-paint in Act II with Roundhead colors.
The production continues to draw attention for its unique interpretations and vocal performances.

History

Historical Context

Vincenzo Bellini's opera *I Puritani* premiered on January 24, 1835, at the Théâtre-Italien in Paris, showcasing themes of love and madness during the English Civil War. The opera, with a libretto by Count Carlo Pepoli, became a staple of Italian opera, performed over 200 times by 1909. Its recent revival at the Metropolitan Opera underscores its lasting impact on operatic storytelling.

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Met Opera's New Staging

The Metropolitan Opera opened a new production of Vincenzo Bellini's I Puritani on New Year's Eve, its first staging in nearly 50 years.
Directed by Charles Edwards, the production stars Lisette Oropesa as Elvira and Lawrence Brownlee as Arturo.
Critics praise Oropesa's vocal agility and emotional depth, while Brownlee shows range.
Set during the English Civil War, it explores madness and love and runs through January 18.

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