London City Music Theatre

Luisa Fernanda - Moreno Torroba
Teatro Real, Madrid

Legendary star Plácido Domingo returns to Madrid to star in Teatro Real’s much-heralded production of Luisa Fernanda. Domingo has had a lifelong love affair with the Spanish version of operetta called ‘zarzuela’ and particularly with Federico Moreno Torroba's Luisa Fernanda. At its acclaimed premiere in 1932, Domingo's parents sang the leading roles in a series of performances presented by the composer. Domingo himself debuted in a touring production of Luisa Fernanda at the age of 16-years-old. Domingo returns to his beloved zarzuela, partnering with vivacious Nancy Herrera to headline the much-anticipated production at Teatro Real Madrid.

Luisa Fernanda is in many ways the last great romantic zarzuela, a musical tradition that was widely popular in the 20th century. Using a mix of classical and popular music, spoken scenes and sometimes dance, Torroba's zarzuela follows Luisa (Herrera) a young woman in love with an unworthy young man Javier. To her dismay, he is convinced by Duchess Carolina to join the army to fight revolutionaries. In the events that follow, Luisa meets the rich landowner Hernando (Domingo) and affairs of the heart become a tangled web. Designer and director Emilio Sagi, known for his excellence with the zarzuela form, updates the production and sets the colourful action on a basic set of white and black that provides an stimulating atmosphere for Luisa Fernanda’s rich world of emotions. Jesus Lopez Cobos conducts the Chorus & Orchestra of the Teatro Real, expertly supporting Domingo and Herrera as they capture the authentic spirit of this romantic Spanish masterpiece.

“Plácido Domingo dominates the action, still able to project a graying virility in the style of Sean Connery.” - The Independent
“Plácido Domingo’s sincere, ardent acting and ringing baritone are nothing short of wondrous.” - Richard Traubner, Opera News
“One cannot help smiling at this luminous cavalcade of street singer ballads, love duets and romantically charged ensembles. You’ll be humming its habaneras, mazurkas, and jotas incesantemente.”-- Richard Traubner, Opera News

Captured live in High Definition and Surround Sound at Teatro Real Madrid – July 2006

Duration: 107 minutes (+ 20 minute intermission)

For a preview of this film please visit DigiScreen Website

Children (Under 12) $10.00 | Seniors/Students $20.00 | Adults $22.50
Purchase 3 Show Pack: Seniors/Students $50.00 | Adults $60.00