Leoncavallo\u2019s \u201cPagliacci\u201d has endured as a staple of the operatic canon since its premiere back on May 21, 1892.<\/p>\n
Leoncavallo was reportedly inspired to take on the work after seeing the success of Mascagni\u2019s masterwork \u201cCavalleria Rusticana\u201d and set out to write his own Verismo opera in one-act form. The result was a success that has often been associated with the Mascagni work, the two often presented together. That pairing first came about on Dec. 22, 1893 and has endured since. It is quite common to see the two operas split apart with \u201cPagliacci\u201d often showcased alongside other short operas, such as the New York City Opera\u2019s recent pairing with \u201cAleko.\u201d<\/p>\n
Quick Plot Summary<\/strong><\/p>\n The opera opens with Tonio\u2019s famous monologue delivered directly to the audience. He establishes the drama that will unfold before lifting the curtain and becoming a character in the play. We quickly learn that Canio leads a troupe alongside his unhappy wife Nedda and a few other players. Nedda is in love with Silvio while Tonio wants Nedda for himself. After making his advances, Tonio finds himself rejected by Nedda and promises vengeance. She has a meeting with Silvio and the two promise to run off together. At the height of their love scene, Canio discovers them and promises vengeance. Silvio manages to run off so Canio tries to get the truth from his wife, who refuses to answer.<\/p>\n During the ensuing show, Canio continues pursuing the truth, the battle between Nedda and Canio grows in intensity, leading the murder of Nedda by her husband. Silvio shows himself and winds up dead as well.<\/p>\n For the full libretto, click here<\/a>.<\/p>\n Famous Musical Excerpts<\/strong><\/p>\n The most famous piece in the entire opera is Canio\u2019s \u201cVesti La Giubba<\/a>,\u201d an aria sung by every great tenor in recitals and concerts. During the aria, Canio remarks how, despite his personal pains, he still has to put on a smile and play the part that the public expects from him.<\/p>\n Nedda\u2019s aria \u201cQual <\/a>fiamma avea nel guardo\u201d speaks to the character\u2019s desire to have the freedom to fly away from the captivity she feels with Canio.<\/p>\n