Roberto Devereux is the fourth and finest of Donizetti’s works dedicated to the Tudor period of English history, and is considered by many to be the ultimate masterpiece amongst his Italian operas. The tragic narrative is a tale of intrigue and vengeance in the court of the elderly and weary Queen Elisabeth I, with Donizetti’s powerful score expressing all of the intense drama and sorrowful emotion demanded by the opera’s finely etched characters. This star-studded Donizetti Opera Festival production received wide critical acclaim.

‘The Donizetti Opera Festival opens with a new production of Roberto Devereux, rewarded with glowing success. Under Riccardo Frizza’s direction, Jessica Pratt, John Osborn, and Raffaella Lupinacci deliver a compelling interpretation of the drama.’ – Apemusicale.it

‘John Osborn is simply perfect in the title role, his voice carrying through the hall with ease. His technical skill allows him to navigate the tessitura with incisiveness.’ – Opera Libera

‘Jessica Pratt’s soprano, on the lighter side, shows exceptional agility and precision. Her venomous chest register and beautifully sung final scene made her portrayal of Elisabetta unforgettable.’ – Bachtrack

Cast:
- Elisabetta: Jessica Pratt (soprano)
- Il duca di Nottingham: Simone Piazzola (baritone)
- Sara: Raffaella Lupinacci (mezzo-soprano)
- Roberto Devereux: John Osborn (tenor)
- Lord Cecil: David Astorga (tenor)
- Sir Gualtiero Raleigh: Ignas Melnikas (bass-baritone)
- Un famigliare di Nottingham e Un Cavaliere: Fulvio Valenti (bass)

Director: Stephen Langridge
Assistant director: Katerina Petsatodi
Set and costume designer: Katie Davenport
Light designer: Peter Mumford
Puppet animation director: Poppy Franziska
Video director and editor: Matteo Ricchetti

Recording place: Donizetti Opera Festival 2024, Teatro Donizetti, Bergamo, Italy
Recording date: 15 November 2024