The story of the Villi by Puccini is inspired by a folk legend widespread throughout Europe, which in each tradition takes on different facets. The Villi are fantastic creatures of the woods, spirits of avenging women of love who torment the souls of unfaithful men with their sinuous dances until they lead them to their deaths.

The plot revolves around three characters: Anna, a young woman betrothed to Roberto, her unfaithful fiancé; next to them is Guglielmo, Anna’s father, who, in order to protect his daughter, invokes the vengeance of the villi.

A two-act opera, full of magical and metaphysical suggestions that well reflect the theme of the 2024 edition of the Festival, “Le Villi” highlights some of the distinctive elements of Puccini’s style, such as his ability for dense melodic constructions of sure emotional impact and his dramatic use of orchestral instrumentation. An early work that shows early on the promise of the talent that would later make Puccini one of the greatest opera composers of all time.

Bing Bing Wang Soprano - Anna
Hayk Vardanyan Tenor - Roberto
Andrea Borghini Baritone - Guglielmo Wulf

Igor Pison Stage Director
Camilla Isola Choreographer
Ilaria Papis Costumes
Paolo Vitale Scenes and lighting

Elia Macrì Choirmaster
Hirofumi Yoshida Music director
Go! Borderless Orchestra & Choir

Dancers: Luana Pignato, Eva Tomat, Afra Pieri, Mattia Lautieri, Benedetta Agostinis, Giovanna Zanchetta, Sara Augieras

New production by the Piccolo Opera Festival. Performed at Castello di Spessa.