Zandonai’s “Francesca da Rimini” isn’t necessarily a staple of the opera canon, but it has had its share of champions over the years, including Magda Olivero, and Renata Scotto, among others.

The work had its world premiere on Feb. 19, 1914 and remains the composer’s most famous work. It has gotten key performances at the major theaters around the world, though it has never quite found a way to remain a vital part of the standard repertory.

Short Plot Synopsis

Francesca has been ordered to marry Giovanni, also known as Gianciotto, the deformed son of Malatesta da Verucchio. Since it was known that she would likely refuse to marry Gianciotto, she was instead introduced to his handsome younger brother Paolo. Francesca falls in love with Paolo on the spot, even though they do not exchange a single word.

Later on, she reproaches Paolo for the Fraud, though he protests his involvement and declares his passion for her. Gianciotto reveals that Paolo has been elected to be the Captain of the People and Commune of Florence.

Francesca reads the story of Lancelot and Guinevere to the women who assist her. She suddenly tells them to leave when she hears word that Paolo is back from Florence and wishes to see her. He enters and they eventually give in to their passion.

Malatestino, the youngest of the brothers, also lusts for Francesca and has discovered her secret meetings with Paolo. He tries to win Francesca for himself, but she rejects him and so he reveals the truth to Gianciotto. Gianciotto discovers the two together and winds up killing them.

Watch and Listen

Here is a performance from 2017 that features Saioa Hernández, Marco Vratogna, and Marcelo Puente.

And here is a recording starring Mario del Monaco.