New-to-Chicago Production Norma
By Vincenzo Bellini
- Language - Performed in Italian with projected English translations
- Running Time - 3 hours 5 minutes including 1 intermission
If you’re drawn to vocal acrobatics, Bellini’s Druid priestess Norma will thrill and astonish you. The absolute pinnacle for any prima donna with the technical prowess, sumptuous voice, and dramatic fire to master its perilous challenges, Norma stands as a crowning jewel of the bel canto repertoire. This timeless story of love betrayed runs the gamut of emotions from loyalty and passion to jealousy, revenge, and redemption. You’ll hear melodies ranging from the stunningly serene “Casta diva” to the frenzy of vocal fireworks that pour forth as Norma’s rage overflows. Don’t miss world-acclaimed soprano Sondra Radvanovsky in this dazzling masterwork!
This production of Norma was presented at Lyric January 28 – February 24, 2017. View our calendar to see what's currently on stage.
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Norma
by Vincenzo Bellini
Recording by EMI – Callas, Ludwig, Corelli, cond. Serafin. Courtesy Warner Classics.
"Vieni in Roma"
Norma Synopsis
In ancient Gaul, the Druids have been invaded by the forces of Rome. Despite her hatred for Rome, the Druid high priestess Norma breaks her vows by falling in love with Pollione, the Roman proconsul, and bearing him two children. He abandons Norma in favor of a young priestess, Adalgisa. The guilt-ridden girl confides in Norma, who is sympathetic until she learns that it is Pollione whom Adalgisa loves. Norma castigates her lover for his betrayal. Out of revenge, she plans to kill their children, but cannot bring herself to do it. Adalgisa attempts to persuade Pollione to return to Norma, but he refuses. He tries to abduct Adalgisa, but the Druids capture him and bring him to Norma for punishment. When she confesses to the Druids that she has broken her vows and must die, Pollione understands her nobility of heart and chooses to die with her.
TIME: 50 BCE
PLACE: Gaul, during the Roman occupation
Program Book
Go inside this production of Norma with engaging articles, notes from the director, a complete plot synopsis, artist bios, and more.
Meet The Artists

Sondra Radvanovsky
Norma

Elizabeth DeShong
Adalgisa

Russell Thomas
Pollione

Andrea Silvestrelli
Oroveso

Riccardo Frizza
Conductor

Kevin Newbury
Director

David Korins
Set Designer

Jessica Jahn
Costume Designer

Duane Schuler
Lighting Designer

Michael Black
Chorus Master
Production Sponsors
JULIE AND ROGER BASKES
EARL AND BRENDA SHAPIRO FOUNDATION
ESTATE OF VENRICE R. PALMER
Coproduction by Lyric Opera of Chicago, San Francisco Opera, Canadian Opera Company, and Gran Teatre del Liceu.
Photo: Cory Weaver