I vespri siciliani, originally conceived as a grand opéra for Paris, is one of Verdi’s most ambitious works, and the multi-faceted central role of Elena is one his most demanding: Callas is one of the few sopranos who have encompassed its vocal and dramatic diversity. This performance – conducted by Erich Kleiber and with Boris Christoff as the Sicilian activist Procida – took place in Florence in Spring 1951. Just over six months later, Callas opened the season at La Scala in the same opera. I vespri siciliani also served for her sole foray into directing opera, for the opening of the new Teatro Regio in Turin in 1973.

Artists

Giórgios Kokoliós-Bardi (Arrigo), Maria Callas (La Duchessa Elena), Enzo Mascherini (Guido di Montforte), Boris Christoff (Giovanni da Procida), Mario Frosini (Il Conte Vaudemont), Bruno Carmassi (Il Sire di Bethume), Mafalda Masini (Ninetta), Gino Sarri (Danieli), Aldo De Paolo (Tebaldo), Lido Pettini (Roberto), Breno Ristori (Manfredo)

Maggio Musicale Fiorentino, Erich Kleiber