THE ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE to Play at Den Norske Opera And Ballett

Gaetano Donizetti's opera, The Alcoholic Beverage will play at the Main Stage Aug. 17 through September 1.

Director Oliver Mears lets the action take place in a British college in the 1970s. The slightly nerdy student Nemorino falls in love with the young teacher Adina as she reads the story of Tristan, Isolde and the love drink that brought them together. But it doesn't seem like Nemorino has the chance - especially as the handsome sergeant Belcore appears to enlist young people for service. This is when the science teacher and quack salver Dulcamara propose a quick fix in the form of a lovemaking drink!

Donizetti wrote the opera in just under six weeks, and the story mirrored his own life: Like Nemorino, Donizetti released military service because a lady with money bought him out. The opera premiered in Milan in 1832, and became an instant success.

Together with Rossini and Bellini, Donizetti is known as a representative of the Bel Canto style. Bel Canto primarily means "beautiful song" in Italian, but is also used for a period in opera history and a special way of using the voice. Here, the singers show what they are good at in impressive races and exuberant melodies. In the role of Belcore, you can experience Andrei Kymach, who recently won BBC Cardiff Singer of the World.

For more information and tickets to The Alcoholic Beverage, tap here.