L’Italiana in Londra was Domenico Cimarosa’s first international triumph, thrilling audiences all over Europe after its premiere in 1778. It later became eclipsed by the even bigger success of Il matrimonio segreto however, and has become a rarity on stage today. Set in a London hotel, this cheerful ‘Intermezzo in musica’ has cleverly crafted arias, duets and ensembles that drive the plot along, the story being one of thwarted love, quarrels and misunderstandings. L’Italiana in Londra has been summed up by director R.B. Schlather as ‘incredibly charming and sophisticated ... demanding, dark, dirty and very funny ... an impeccable rom-com.’

While there are a few disc versions listed, this DVD release of the acclaimed Oper Frankfurt production of Cimarosa’s L’Italiana in Londra is the only video recording commercially available today, and we are delighted to have such a fine new production as part of our New Year release schedule for 2024.


‘...the Frankfurt “Italiana” is entertainment theatre in the best sense of the word: wonderfully played, beautifully sung and staged in a hilarious way’ – Bernd Zegowitz, BNN

‘This production, Schlather’s second for Oper Frankfurt, is a runaway success and a rare delight … Let’s hope it remains in Frankfurt’s repertoire for years to come’ – Opera Canada

Cast:
- Livia: Angela Vallone (soprano)
- Madama Brillante: Bianca Tognocchi (soprano)
- Sumers: Theo Lebow (tenor)
- Milord Arespingh: Iurii Samoilov (baritone)