As part of the 46th edition of the Rossini Opera Festival, taking place from August 10 to 22, the Museo Nazionale Rossini is once again hosting a series of exclusive guided tours that delve into the operas featured in this year’s program. The initiative offers an engaging opportunity to explore the musical, literary, and historical background of the productions: Zelmira, conducted by Giacomo Sagripanti; La cambiale di matrimonio, conducted by Christopher Franklyn; L’italiana in Algeri, conducted by Dmitry Korchak; and Il viaggio a Reims, conducted by Alessandro Mazzocchetti and performed by the young artists of the Accademia Rossiniana “Alberto Zedda.”
The guided tours “Walk Through the Opera” provide a unique chance to discover the origins, themes, and key figures of each opera, while following the evolution of Rossini’s genius across different phases of his career. Set within the evocative spaces of the museum, each visit is carefully curated to offer a room-by-room storytelling experience that deepens the audience’s understanding of the works they will see performed on stage. For each opera, one tour will be held in Italian and one in English, always on the same day the opera is performed at the Festival.
Sunday, August 10 at 4:00 PM (italian)
Wednesday, August 13 at 4:00 PM (english)
ROF 2025 – A Walk Through the Opera Zelmira
Explore Zelmira, a two-act opera with a libretto by Andrea Leone Tottola, based on Dormont de Belloy’s 18th-century tragedy. The work premiered at the Teatro San Carlo in Naples on February 16, 1822, marking the close of Rossini’s Neapolitan period.
Set on the island of Lesbos, the opera tells the dramatic story of Zelmira, who hides her father, King Polidoro, from a usurper by faking his death only to be accused of murder. Her husband, Ilo, returning from war, believes the accusations and turns against her. In the end, the truth is revealed, and justice is restored.
On stage: August 10, 13, 16, 19 – Auditorium Scavolini
Monday, August 11 at 4:00 PM (italian)
Sunday, August 17 at 4:00 PM (english)
ROF 2025 – A Walk Through the Opera La cambiale di matrimonio
Discover La cambiale di matrimonio, Rossini’s first staged opera, composed when he was just 18. This comic two-act farce, set to a libretto by Gaetano Rossi, premiered in Venice at Teatro San Moisè on November 3, 1810.
The opera follows Fanny, a young woman in love, whose father attempts to arrange a marriage for her using a fake contract. Chaos, misunderstandings, and comic antics ensue before love ultimately wins the day.
On stage: August 11, 15, 17, 20 – Teatro Rossini
Thursday, August 14 at 4:00 PM (italian)
Thursday, August 21 at 4:00 PM (english)
ROF 2025 – A Walk Through the Opera L’italiana in Algeri
Take a closer look at L’italiana in Algeri, a two-act opera buffa with a libretto by Angelo Anelli. Inspired by a real historical incident, it premiered at the Teatro San Benedetto in Venice on May 22, 1813.
The opera follows Isabella, an Italian woman who travels to Algiers to rescue her beloved Lindoro from the clutches of Mustafà, the local Bey. Disguised and determined, Isabella turns the tables in a hilarious tale full of witty deception, mistaken identities, and comic brilliance.
On stage: August 12, 14, 18, 21 – Teatro Rossini
Monday, August 18 at 4:00 PM (italian)
Tuesday, August 19 at 4:00 PM (english)
ROF 2025 – A Walk Through the Opera Il viaggio a Reims
Conclude the series with Il viaggio a Reims, a sparkling ensemble opera composed for the coronation of Charles X of France. With a libretto by Luigi Balocchi, adapted in part from Madame de Staël’s Corinne ou l’Italie, it premiered at the Théâtre Italien in Paris on June 19, 1825.
A group of aristocrats from across Europe converge at an inn on their way to the coronation, but logistical chaos threatens to ruin their plans. A satirical and spirited tale unfolds, filled with caricatures, national rivalries, and joyful chaos culminating in a grand celebration.
On stage: August 15, 18 – Teatro Rossini
Thanks to a partnership with the Rossini Opera Festival, ticket holders for ROF performances are entitled to reduced admission to the Museo Nazionale Rossini.
Guided tours are included in the museum entrance ticket
Advance booking is required
Info and tickets