"La favorite" is an opera by the Italian composer Gaetano Donizetti. Here are some interesting facts about the opera and its composer:
Original Title: The opera was originally composed in French and titled "La favorite." However, Donizetti also composed an Italian version of the opera, titled "Le favorita."
Premiere: "La favorite" premiered on December 2, 1840, at the Paris Opéra. It was a significant moment in Donizetti's career as it marked his first successful venture into French opera.
Librettist: The libretto for "La favorite" was written by Alphonse Royer and Gustave Vaëz, based on a Spanish play by Manuel Tamayo y Baus. The story is set in medieval Spain and revolves around a love triangle between a monk, a noblewoman, and a king.
Historical Context: The opera is loosely based on real historical events, with the character of Fernand representing the 14th-century Castilian knight Fernán González de Eslava and the character of Alfonso XI representing the historical King Alfonso XI of Castile.
Donizetti's French Success: "La favorite" marked Donizetti's successful entry into the world of French grand opera. Prior to this, he was primarily known for his Italian operas. The opera's French premiere was met with critical acclaim and further solidified his reputation as a composer of great skill and versatility.
Famous Aria: One of the most famous arias from "La favorite" is "Ô mon Fernand," sung by the character Léonor. This aria is known for its beautiful melodies and emotional depth.
Notable Revivals: While "La favorite" is not as frequently performed as some of Donizetti's other works like "Lucia di Lammermoor" or "Don Pasquale," it has experienced revivals in recent years, thanks to its lush orchestration and dramatic storytelling.
Bel Canto Style: Donizetti's "La favorite" showcases the bel canto style, known for its focus on beautiful singing, lyrical melodies, and virtuosic vocal displays. It combines this style with the grandeur and spectacle characteristic of French grand opera.
Adaptations: The story of "La favorite" has also been adapted into ballets and other artistic forms. Its themes of love, power, and sacrifice continue to resonate with audiences.
Donizetti's Health: Gaetano Donizetti faced significant health challenges during the composition of "La favorite." He suffered from bouts of mental illness and depression, and his declining health affected his later works. Despite these challenges, he managed to create a memorable and enduring opera with "La favorite."
"La favorite" remains an important part of Gaetano Donizetti's legacy, showcasing his ability to compose in multiple languages and styles while exploring themes of love and power in a historic setting.