“Lakmé” is perhaps one of the most recognized operas in the world. While it is rarely performed, its Bell Song and Flower duet have been sung by every major lyric and coloratura soprano. So when the opera actually graces the stage, it is always an event and one that requires a soprano who is capable of singing the immensely difficult music and lengthy evening. This week, Elena Mosuc takes on the challenging role for the first time in her career.

The Romanian soprano, who has made a name for herself in some of the most difficult Bel Canto roles in the repertoire, will perform the premiere of a worldwide co-production at the Royal Opera Muscat. It will mark her return to a theater where she has had numerous successes in some of her signature Bel Canto roles. Moreover this is the first time that Mosuc debuts a role and production in Muscat. As she noted in a recent interview with OperaWire, Mosuc is a soprano who likes a challenge even if it comes 20 years after she first recorded the aria. The soprano will sing two performances of the opera during the three-show run.

For those not in Muscat for “Lakmé,” Mosuc is debuting the role of Giselda in “I Lombardi” and is also set to perform Gilda in “Rigoletto.”

Recordings 

It’s hard to know where to start with Mosuc’s immense discography. One of her best recordings is the Donizetti Heroines album which includes arias from “Anna Bolena,” “Maria Stuarda” and “Roberto Devereux,” among others. There is also her Verdi album which includes arias from some of Verdi’s greatest operas as well as some rarely performed works.

On DVD there is a recording of her performing Zerbinetta in “Ariadne auf Naxo” from the Salzburg Festival as well as a “Rigoletto” from Opernhaus Zurich.

And here she is performing the Bell Song from “Lakmé.”