Can Love Persist During Civil War?

Seattle Opera Presents I Puritani

Many might not consider civil war the necessary pre-condition for a love story, but Vincenzo Bellini's opera I Puritani manages to deliver the required passion and believe it or not, happy ending. Set during the English Civil War from 1642 - 1649, the opera I Puritani uses the death of Charles I and the imminent defeat of the Royalist by Puritan forces to add political drama to the love of a young woman, Elvira, for a Royalist, Arturo even though her father wants her to marry Riccardo. Just when Elvira's uncle has convinced her father to allow her to marry Arturo and the wedding about to take place, Charles I's widow, Henrietta, needs help escaping.

Arturo uses Elvira's veil to disguise Henrietta and aids her escape from Puritan soldiers. The Puritan troops led by Riccardo recognize the Henrietta, but allow Arturo and Henrietta through even though they recognize her. But Arturo is now a wanted man, subject to a death warrant. In the end, after the Puritans defeat the Royalists, Cromwell pardons the Royalist soldiers and Arturo and Elvira are free at last to marry.

I first ran into the I Puritani opera when I picked up a $2 CD of the opera at the local dollar store. The CD was produced in 1995 from Delta Music Inc, and features Lucia Alibert, Michele Pertusi, Carlos Alvarez and Guiseppe Sabbatini. Most of the songs are melodic and very memorable, even Elvira's song while crazy from her loss of Arturo who she believes has deserted her. I fell in love with I Puritani and listen to it quite often.

I Puritani is Vincenzo Bellini's last of ten operas, performed first on January 24, 1825 in Paris. A quote by Bellini says he demanded opera that "through singing must make one weep, shudder, die".

Seattle's presentation of I Puritani runs from My 3-14 and tickets start at $25. A special Mother's Day Tea performance will be held May 11 at 12:30, with tea served before the performance. Cost is $40 for adults and $20 for children 12 and younger.