Maria Stuarda

Although, historically speaking, Elizabeth I and Mary Stuart never actually met, a potential encounter between the two has formed the stuff of fantasy for writers, painters and composers over the centuries. Donizetti too drew inspiration from this concoction, creating a spine-tingling showdown that sizzles with vocal fireworks as the two queens hurl insults at each other, culminating in Stuarda’s “Vil bastarda”! (“Vile bastard!”). Elizabeth’s emotions get the better of her and she becomes ruthless in her pursuit for vengeance. 

Trilogy 

Maria Stuarda (1835) is the second instalment of Donizetti’s Tudor trilogy that is being presented over a period of three seasons, with Dutch director Jetske Mijnssen delving deep into the psyches of these complex characters. A common thread in her staging of the trilogy is Elizabeth’s life and the trauma she has suffered. The Netherlands Chamber Orchestra will bring Donizetti’s score to life from the pit, under the baton of Enrique Mazzola – a world-class specialist of the bel canto repertoire. Young, up-and-coming Russian mezzo-soprano Aigul Akhmetshina will sing the role of Elizabeth.