The Wiener Staatsoper is preparing to stage a new production of Bellini's Norma.

Michele Mariotti will conduct this fresh rendition, directed by French stage director Cyril Teste.

In a statement, Mariotti expressed, “‘Norma’ is a triumph of emotions and inner turmoil, conveyed through the powerful classical style of the music. To me, there are two key moments that give the opera a striking modern edge: the duet between the two sopranos, who unknowingly experience the same emotions of love for the same man (I specifically selected a soprano for Adalgisa so that their voices could blend seamlessly), and the finale of the first act, which culminates in a trio between Pollione and the two romantic rivals. These are emotions that unfold in the more subtle, intimate realms of everyday life, steering clear of clichéd theatrical spectacle.”

The production will feature an impressive cast, including Federica Lombardi as Norma, Juan Diego Flórez in his debut role as Pollione, Ildebrando D’Arcangelo as Oroveso, Vasilisa Berzhanskaya as Adalgisa, and Anna Bondarenko and Hiroshi Amako as Clotilde and Flavio. A second cast will take the stage in May, featuring Lidia Fridman as Norma and Freddie De Tommaso as Pollione, conducted by Antonino Fogliani.

Norma will open on February 22 and run through May 26.