Rigoletto is considered one of the most popular operas in the repertoire. In this work, which was first presented 171 years ago in Venice, Verdi changes the page in his compositional path and presents a composition with a clear stamp and an increased mood for experimentation. The transitions between lyrical and dramatic scenes ensure the constant flow of the story at high speed. “Innovation of the music, the style, the format of the pieces. Wonderful work of orchestration: this orchestra speaks, tears, moves,” wrote the day after the world premiere of Rigoletto, on March 12, 1851, the Italian critic Tommazzo Locatelli.

The story tells of the love of Gilda, daughter of the hunchbacked court jester Rigoletto, for the exiled Duke of Mantua, who presents himself to her as a poor student. In order to avenge his daughter’s lost honour, Rigoletto plots the Duke’s murder. Discovering her father’s plans, Gilda decides to save her beloved and sacrifice herself, taking his place.