Love, jealousy, and a supposed magic potion: Gaetano Donizetti's opera "L'elisir d'amore" combines lively comedy with touching emotions. The story of shy Nemorino, who wants to win the heart of his beloved with the help of a supposed miracle cure, is one of the most charming works of Italian bel canto.
Young Nemorino is hopelessly in love with the self-confident Adina. But his chances seem slim, as Adina shows great interest in the self-assured Sergeant Belcore. In his desperation, Nemorino resorts to an unusual solution: he confides in the wandering quack Dulcamara, who sells him a supposed love potion—in fact, nothing more than ordinary red wine.
Convinced of the effect of the supposed magic potion, Nemorino finds new hope. But the story takes numerous surprising turns. Misunderstandings, comical coincidences, and the power of imagination cause events to take ever-changing directions—until everything finally turns out in Nemorino's favor.
With "Der Liebestrank" (The Elixir of Love), which premiered in 1832, Gaetano Donizetti created an opera that he himself described as an "opera comica." However, behind the humorous tone there is always genuine emotional depth, especially in the lyrical moments of the music. To this day, the work remains one of the most popular operas in the repertoire and continues to delight audiences worldwide with its blend of wit, romance, and unmistakable bel canto brilliance.
Premiere March 21,
Further performances: March 27, April 4, 15, and 18, May 10, 21, and 24, June 7 and 13, 2026
