(Photo courtesy of Opera Southwest)

Opera Southwest is set to present “Matilde” on Sept. 13 and 14, 2024.

The opera by Carlo Coccia originally premiered in 1811 at the Teatro San Moisè in Venice and explores the love story of Federico and Matilde and the mistaken identities and major challenges they encounter.

“’Matilde’ also enjoyed popularity in at least five cities outside Venice—Macerata, Naples, Padua, Rome and Milan. The opera consequently has a rich textual history, with different versions of tenor arias found in various manuscripts,” said Artistic Director and Principal Conductor Anthony Barrese in an official press release issued by the company. “Which aria is better? Attend multiple performances, and you might just find out!”

The opera, which was originally titled “Love or Duty,” will star Will Kellerman, Alexandra Wiebe, Eric Botto, Kim Stanish, and Joshua Hughes. Martha Collins directs the production. “Matilde” will have a duration of 80 minutes without intermission.