This opera is one of many partially forgotten or lost Croatian operas, or in this case, destroyed. The score and nearly all orchestral parts were lost in the devastating fire that consumed the Croatian National Theatre in Split in 1970, with the building’s reconstruction taking until 1979.
Thankfully, the Yugoslav Composers’ Society had printed a piano reduction of the opera, although without any notes specifying the instruments for each section. Despite this, the piano extract played a crucial role in preserving the work. Originally composed in 1954 to commemorate the 700th anniversary of Marco Polo’s birth (1254-1954) and completed in 1955, the opera was performed only three times in 1960 and twice in 1962.
Now, as we approach the 700th anniversary of Marco Polo’s death, the time is ripe to revive this forgotten masterpiece. The revival involves an extensive orchestration project based on the existing piano reduction, overseen by maestro Josip degl’ Ivellio, who previously worked on the Baroque opera The Siege of Korčula. The work also includes costume design, set design, and direction, all aimed at bringing this lost piece of Croatian cultural heritage back to life.
Tickets available for purchase at Kaleta Travel Agency and Korkyra Info.
When buying two or more tickets, you get 20% discount.
In the event of rain, the performance will be held at the Culture Centre.
