Details

A Tuscan village, early 19th century. Inspired by the story of Tristan and Isolde, the shy young Nemorino buys potion from a quack, Dulcamara, in the hope of winning Adina. She seems to prefer Belcore, a sergeant of the garrison, and irritated by Nemorino's now apparent indifference towards her, she promises to marry Belcore immediately. Convinced that the elixir will take effect within 24 hours. Nemorino begs her to wait, but she refuses. Nemorino joins the army, using his enlisting bonus to buy another bottle of elixir. Finding himself suddenly surrounded by village girls , he presumes the elixir is working, unaware of the rumour that his uncle has died leaving him a large fortune. Adina feels intense envy and realises that it is Nemorino she really loves. Learning of his sacrifices, she redeems him from the army and the couple are married. Dulcamara capitalises on the apparent success of his elixir and does a roaring trade. Prepare to be transported to the Wild West in Preston Opera’s adaptation of an old favourite with a modern twist. Sympathetically transformed from its original setting of a small Italian village to the streets of Wild West during the Californian gold rush, we follow the amusing attempts of the young, hapless love-struck Nemorino, whose tries to win the lovely Adina’s affection with a magic love potion (which is little more than cheap plonk). Complete with soldiers, saloon girls, and the town sheriff, The Elixir of Love features a strong principal cast supported by the vocal talents of Preston Opera’s chorus, and promises to be a truly memorable performance ideal for all the family.

Creatives/Company

Music: Donizetti
Lyrics: Romani
Company: Preston Opera