Don Pasquale

The old should not meddle in the affairs of the young—this is the moral of Don Pasquale, Donizetti’s witty and exuberant comedy, which satirises arranged marriages and celebrates youthful, genuine love.

“I feel like I’m twenty again! We shall have beautiful children—I see six, or even twelve, running, playing, and laughing.” The ageing bachelor Don Pasquale is overjoyed at the thought of marrying the young and modest Norina, whom Malatesta has supposedly found for him.

What Don Pasquale does not know is that it is all a ruse—a trap set to deceive him so that his nephew can escape a forced marriage to an older widow and instead be with his beloved Norina.

Donizetti composed around 70 operas, and Don Pasquale, written late in his career, was a resounding success at its premiere.

A true opera buffa, this work brims with all the experience Donizetti had gathered as a composer—his music sparkles with life, humour, and irony.

French director Mariame Clément, who last season presented a spectacular interpretation of Donizetti’s dramatic Maria Stuarda at the Opera, brings this dazzling production to life in a beautifully crafted classical set by Julia Hansen. The vibrant cast features Danish and international soloists, including rising soprano talent Louise McClelland as Norina.

Don Pasquale is performed in Italian with Danish and English surtitles.

Don Pasquale is a Glyndebourne production.

Recommended from 8 years old