DON PASQUALE - GAETANO DONIZETTI

 

The talent and good humor of Régis Mengus, give life to the character MALATESTA in this comic opera in three acts. The created types in Don Pasquale exceed the simple stereotyped characterization of the characters of the classic comedy. The melodies written by Donizetti seem to accurately describe the characters emotions: the cunning and concealment of Norina / Sofronia, the ingenuity of Pasquale, the candid lyricism of ordinary hero Ernesto - an ordinary hero -,  and the cleverness and humor of Dr. Malatesta.

 

Act 1

 

Don Pasquale, an celibate rich good-hearted old man wishes to marry his nephew – Ernesto - with a young lady of his Preference. The lad, however, loves Norina, and expects his uncle's consent to marry. Don Pasquale ensures that if Ernesto does not marry whom he wants to, Ernesto will be disinherited. And Ernesto goes to search a bride for himself, Malatesta, his friend and server, get him a bride: his own sister. A beautiful young woman, coy and obedient.

 

In her own home, Norina is advised by Malatesta of what is happening, and he promises to help her to marrying with Ernesto, but she will have to do what he tells her.

 

Act 2

 

Malatesta arrives at Don Pasquale's house bringing Norina, who keeps her face covered by a veil and she is presented with the name of Sofronia, fresh out of a convent, very coy, gets bored with the social life, preferring to remain at home.

When Norina puts out the veil, Don Pasquale faileth before the young lady's beauty. The justice of the peace - actually a servant of Malatesta-  celebrates the false marriage.

 

Ernesto comes to the house and gets surprised to come face to face with Norina. Malatesta called him aside and tells him the secret plan. Ernesto himself signs the marriage contract as a witness.

 

Act 3

 

Everywhere of the house are the many purchases that Sofronia did. Meanwhile, do not stop coming in and out numerous servants hired by her. Don Pasquale, perplexed with such futility and the fable of money that marriage is costingh him, he has got a light slap of Norina in a discussion. He still finds a fake ticket, left to his view, has got a light slap of Norina in a discussion. He still finds a fake ticket, left to his sight, in which someone says he expects the "Beloved Sofronia" that night. Malatesta proposes entrap the lovers. With the cheating has Been proving to ... He may proclaim the divorce.

 

In the garden at night, Ernesto sings a serenade to Norina and they exchange promises of love. Malatesta and Don Pasquale surprise Norina and order her to leave the house, because the next day there will be a young woman in the house to bring order. "It is Norina, who will marry Ernesto" tells Malatesta. Inasmuch as there will be a young woman in the house to bring order the next day. "It is Norina, who will marry Ernesto" tells Malatesta.

 

Don Pasquale consents in order to to get rid of Sofronia, and he requests to Ernesto pick his bride up. Malatesta says “it is not necessary because she is already there” and shows  him the danger is a loveless marriage. Don Pasquale gives them his blessing and inheritance to the couple.