This work gives, of the Romeo and Juliet story, a different perspective from that better-known to opera lovers, the one of Bellini’s, Gounod’s and Berlioz’s works. The tragedy of the two lovers from Verona, in Marco Marcelliano Marcello’s libretto, transfers us to a Verdian mood, with echoes from Traviata and Ballo in maschera. Also the vocal style is typical of a period of belcanto that has faded, having the forcefully - almost dramatic - lyrical accents heralding Verismo. Many will be surprised to find, in this score, some music quotes; the one from Traviata is very clear, even for an untrained ear. Just as Mercadante lived with Donizetti and Meyerbeer with Rossini, so Marchetti breathed Verdi’s air.

Another daring revival of the Martina Franca Festival, which continues in its rediscovery of neglected operatic masterpieces.