I lombardi alla prima crociata

The four-acter I lombardi alla prima crociata was Verdi’s fourth opera. The plot was drawn from a recent epic poem by Tommaso Grossi; but while obviously sympathizing with the Christian army, and particularly with the sufferings of the brave volunteers from Milan, the opera is by no means a one-sided affair. Actually, it depicts how destructively the clash between political factions and hostile cultures may affect people’s daily lives and how even a murderer is capable of reform into a saintly person. The ambitious subject matter is fleshed out with broad-brushed musical effects and lavish choral scenes of grand dramatic impact.

La Fenice new production
Venetian first premiered in modern times

The performance lasts about 2 hours and 50 minutes including one interval