After a few sharp chords, the newly escaped political prisoner Angelotti runs on and collapses, hiding inside a church.

Romantic trysts and friendships must be snatched in fleeting moments, which gives the whole first act a kind of breathless, even cinematic quality. Nothing can be counted on, not human safety or loyalties. He knew what opera delivers best and focused on the fragility of people’s identities and relationships in harsh times.Įvents and emotions erupt quickly in this volatile world. But composer Puccini was too deft to belabor political polemics. Set in 19 th century Rome during a period of political turbulence when Napoleon’s forces had invaded the city, its themes resonate resoundingly in our own capital. Since 1900, this opera has drawn people with its sensational plot featuring political corruption, sex and violence. Alan Held as Baron Scarpia and Patricia Racette as Floria Tosca (Photo: Scott Suchman)

The choice of Tosca to mark this event suggested that the big classics would remain the engine that drives the company and sealed WNO’s promise to give Washington’s opera faithful what they want. Showing up Saturday night were Washington’s well-heeled to bless the union at an affair that proved to be both classy and artfully produced. Like a marriage ceremony, there is now a commitment on both sides to make this relationship work and contribute to the thriving of both parties. Opening night of the Washington National Opera celebrated both a new leader at the helm and a new partnership with The Kennedy Center.

Tosca opera in dc