Verdi: Simon Boccanegra (Grosses Festspielhaus, Salzburg 2019, directed by Mancini)

In 2019, the Salzburg Festival presented a highly acclaimed new production of Giuseppe Verdi’s historical drama "Simon Boccanegra." This series of performances became one of the highlights of the past season at the Grosses Festspielhaus. The production was in the hands of Andreas Kriegenburg, who staged the piece with extreme clarity, transparency, and attention to detail, guiding the singers gently but with the necessary characterization through the story of the corsair who rises to become the Doge of Genoa. An absolute world-class ensemble sings and acts: Luca Salsi in the title role, René Pape as Fiesco, and Marina Rebeka and Charles Castronovo as the lovers Amelia and Gabriele Adorno make this performance an absolute auditory delight. Under the baton of Valery Gergiev, the Vienna Philharmonic plays at the highest level. The highly accomplished Concert Association of the Vienna State Opera Chorus also performs.