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Which famous aria opens Act 1 of Bellini's 'Norma'?
The title character opens the opera with the incredibly difficult bel canto aria 'Casta Diva.' It requires the soprano to execute long, seamless vocal lines and complex coloratura runs.
Who was the original singer to premiere the role of Norma in 1831?
The notoriously demanding role was first performed by Italian soprano Giuditta Pasta at La Scala in Milan. Pasta's voice was reportedly uniquely suited to the wide range and dramatic weight of Bellini's writing.
What is the historical setting of Bellini's 'Norma'?
The opera is set in 50 BC during the Roman occupation of Gaul. The plot follows a Druid high priestess who secretly has two children with the leader of the Roman army.
Did Vincenzo Bellini write the libretto for 'Norma'?
No, the Italian libretto was written by Felice Romani, based on a French play by Alexandre Soumet. The two collaborated frequently, producing several major bel canto operas in the 1830s.
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