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Article: The Puccini Effect - Vanessa West

 

Puccini loved women. His operatic heroines of Tosca, Madama Butterfly and Mimì are what legends are made of – but so far little has been told about what – or more importantly who – inspired these passionate women of opera.

 

On the last Sunday in June, their silence will finally be broken. Over a very special afternoon, six of Puccini’s lovers will share their stories of lust, romance and betrayal, and of the man they all loved.

 

It was not easy enticing them to Australia, and even more difficult encouraging them to speak publicly about Puccini.

 

They only agreed on the proviso that the setting would be intimate and relaxed. Maleny, the jewel of the Sunshine Coast hinterland, was chosen for its reputation as a bohemian artistisan mecca, a place where Puccini would have felt at home.

 

When asked what format the shows will take, the women wouldn’t be drawn into being categorised. “It’s part conversation, part recital, and features some of the most beautiful arias ever composed by man”.

 

Soprano and long-time lover of Puccini’s music, Vanessa West, portrays six women Giacomo Puccini loved; the soprano’s Maria Jeritza and Rose Ader, a mysterious Corinna from Turin, friend and creative confidant Sybil Seligman, de facto then wife Elvira Puccini, and finally Puccini’s maid Doria Manfredi. Also written by Vanessa West, The Puccini Effect features Associate Angus Grant, production styled ByCeline and with thanks from creative consultant and dramaturg Dr.Tarita Botsman.

 

Escape winter and join with other Puccini lovers for a lazy Sunday afternoon of fine wine, cheese and Puccini’s Women. 30 June only, BOOKNOW!

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