Operakino 26/27 - LA GIOCONDA from Arena di Verona

The singer Gioconda is in love with Enzo, but he loves the noble Laura, who is already married to the powerful inquisitor Barnaba. Barnaba is himself possessed by Gioconda and takes advantage of power and intrigue to get her. Laura escapes from her unhappy marriage and is hidden by Gioconda, despite being her rival. When Barnaba threatens Laura, Gioconda eventually chooses to sacrifice herself. With Giovanna Casolla (Gioconda), Daniela Dessì (Laura), and Giuseppe Giacomini (Enzo).
Amilcare Ponchielli's La Gioconda was performed in Franco Zeffirelli's famous large-scale production, which is known for its immense visual splendor and classic “grand opera” style. The “Dance of the Hours” is famous ballet music from the opera, an allegorical ballet depicting the different hours of the day — morning, day, evening and night. The “Dance of the Hours” is today one of the most popular and recognizable orchestral pieces from the opera literature, even among people who have never seen La Gioconda.
Puccini used the opera as a role model for his Tosca.

Running time: 162 min.