Cinderella (opera) facts for kids
Cinderella (which in Italian is La Cenerentola) is a famous opera by the Italian composer Gioachino Rossini. It was first performed in Rome, Italy, in January 1817. This opera is based on the classic 1697 fairy tale of "Cinderella" by Charles Perrault. The main character, Cinderella, is sung by a special kind of singer called a coloratura mezzo-soprano. The opera's opening music, called the overture, is very popular and often played in concerts all by itself.
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Rossini's Cinderella: A Magical Opera
An opera is like a play where all the words are sung instead of spoken. It combines music, singing, costumes, and scenery to tell a story. Rossini's Cinderella is a comic opera, meaning it has funny parts and a happy ending. It's known for its fast-paced music and exciting singing.
Who Was Gioachino Rossini?
Gioachino Rossini was a very important Italian composer. He lived from 1792 to 1868. Rossini wrote many operas, and he was one of the most popular composers of his time. His music is known for being lively and full of catchy tunes. He wrote Cinderella very quickly, in just about three weeks!
The Story: A Different Kind of Fairy Tale
While Rossini's Cinderella is based on the classic fairy tale, it has some fun differences. There's no fairy godmother or a magic pumpkin in this version. Instead, Cinderella is helped by a wise philosopher named Alidoro, who is actually the Prince's tutor in disguise. The famous glass slipper is replaced by a pair of bracelets.
Main Characters
- Cinderella (Angelina): The kind and gentle heroine. She is treated badly by her stepfather and stepsisters.
- Don Ramiro: The Prince, who disguises himself as his own valet (a servant) to find a good and honest wife.
- Dandini: The Prince's real valet, who pretends to be the Prince. This creates many funny situations.
- Don Magnifico: Cinderella's greedy and silly stepfather. He cares only about money and his own daughters.
- Clorinda and Tisbe: Cinderella's two mean and vain stepsisters. They are always trying to look their best and marry the Prince.
- Alidoro: The Prince's wise tutor. He helps Cinderella and makes sure good triumphs in the end.
The Music: Fast and Fun
Rossini's music for Cinderella is full of energy. The overture is especially famous. It starts quietly and then builds up with a lot of excitement. Rossini was known for his "Rossini crescendo," where the music gets louder and faster, creating a thrilling effect. The singers also have to be very skilled to sing the fast and difficult notes in the opera.
Why Cinderella is Still Popular
Cinderella remains a favorite opera today because of its beautiful music, funny story, and heartwarming message. It shows that kindness and goodness are more important than wealth or looks. The opera teaches us that even in difficult situations, hope and true love can win in the end.
