Francesco Cilea’s Gloria, performed here in its 1932 revised edition, takes as its theme the ultimately tragic story of two lovers caught up in a conflict in 14th-century Siena. The libretto is based on Victorien Sardou’s play La Haine (Hatred) and the opera features Cilea’s refined orchestral writing inspired by the Russian and French schools, with vocal lines that are varied and rewarding. Opera Today called this production “musically magical”, while Operawire.com extolled the inventive and convincing staging along with Francesco Cilluffo’s compelling musical direction.

“Overall, this was a thoroughly absorbing performance, one that surely vindicates Cilea’s belief in the opera’s quality.” – OperaWire

“Francesco Cilluffo conducts the Cagliari Orchestra with passion and vehemence in a work as musically beautiful as it is complex and rich in influences.” – Musicandosite.com

“The Cilea sound is unique in its melodic sensuality… The cast assembled by the Teatro Lirico di Cagliari well met the huge challenges of executing these monumental roles.” – OperaToday.com

“Attention to detail is an element that denotes great professionalism in Albanese’s staging...” – Il Portico

Cast:
- Aquilante de’ Bardi: Ramaz Chikviladze (bass)
- Gloria: Anastasia Bartoli (soprano)
- Bardo: Franco Vassallo (baritone)
- Lionetto de’ Ricci: Carlo Ventre (tenor)
- Il Vescovo: Alessandro Abis (bass)
- La Senese: Elena Schirru (soprano)
- Il Banditore: Alessandro Frabotta (bass)

Director: Antonio Albanese
Assistant director: Daniela Zedda
Set designer: Leila Fteita
Costume designer: Carola Fenocchio
Assistant costume designer: Marco Nateri
Light designer: Andrea Ledda
Video director: Matteo Ricchetti

Recording place: Teatro Lirico di Cagliari, Italy