A 19th century romcom, Italian style

Published on Friday 20 November 2009 14:45

As part of Scottish Opera's unashamedly Italianate autumn season, most people would expect to see The Elixir Of Love around Valentine's Day instead.

That said, Gaetano Donizetti's comedic battle of the sexes has an enduring charm in whichever season it appears.

Set on a sun-kissed Italian resort in the early part of the 19th century, the story centres on peasant Nemorino (a waiter), and his unrequited love for local beauty, Adina (a hotel proprietor).

Unfortunately, Adina is more interested in acquiring the love of womanising Captain Belcore. Thankfully, however, the quackery of Dr Dulcamara and his love potion ensures Nemorino attracts the attentions of the local village girls, making Adina desperately jealous.

Directed by Giles Havergal, The Elixir Of Love is a lively and colourful interpretation of Donizetti's classic opera buffa that draws out the emotional warmth and depth of the characters. Allowing audiences to empathise with their individual plights, while being swept along with the fast-paced plot, as Scottish Opera General Director, Alex Reed, suggests, it's an opera anyone who believes in romance can enjoy.

''Donizetti's opera is a fantastically cheerful romantic comedy and one of the top 20 most performed operas in the world. Giles' production is a firm favourite with audiences and now is the perfect time to revive it."

The Elixir Of Love, Festival Theatre, Sunday (4pm), Thursday (7.15pm), next Saturday (7.15pm), 14-62, 0131-529 6000