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

In 2019, the Salzburg Festival presented a highly acclaimed new production of Giuseppe Verdi’s historical drama "Simon Boccanegra." The 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 directed the piece with great clarity, transparency, and a love for detail, guiding the singers through the story of the corsair who becomes the Doge of Genoa with sensitivity and the necessary character development. An absolute world-class ensemble performs: Luca Salsi in the title role, René Pape as Fiesco, as well as Marina Rebeka and Charles Castronovo as the lovers Amelia and Gabriele Adorno, make this performance an absolute delight to hear. 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.