Who hasnยt done something wacky in the name of love? In Gaetano Donizettiยs popular two-act opera Lยelisir dยamore (The Elixir of Love), Nemorino is a poor peasant in love with the beautiful Adina. Unfortunately, Adina isnยt interested in Nemorino; sheยs set on marrying the dashing Sergeant Belcore. Desperate to win her love, Nemorino spends all his money on a magic elixir hawked by a shady traveling salesman. Emboldened by the potion ย which turns out to be a copious amount of wine ย Nemorino vows to gain Adinaยs love at all costs. Hilarity ensues, with all the miscommunication, double-dealing and sexual gamesmanship that are hallmarks of comedic operas. Although it originally premiered in 1832, Lยelisir dยamoreยs romantic high jinks can certainly hold their own with todayยs romantic comedies. 7:30 p.m. today, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday. Wortham Opera Theater, Rice University, 6100 Main. For information, call 713-348-8000 or visit www.music.rice.edu. $10 to $12.
Wed., March 19, 7:30 p.m.; Thu., March 20, 7:30 p.m.; Sat., March 22, 7:30 p.m.; Mon., March 24, 7:30 p.m., 2008
This article appears in Mar 13-19, 2008.