Il macigno facts for kids

Il macigno (which means The Rock in Italian) is an Italian opera. An opera is like a play where most of the words are sung! The music for this opera was written by Victor de Sabata, and the story (called the libretto) was written by Alberto Colantuoni. It was first performed in Milan on March 31, 1917.

Later, in 1935, it was performed again in Turin with a new name, Driada. Sadly, most of the original music was lost during a fire in Milan in 1943, during World War II. Luckily, a version for voice and piano, and the full story, still exist!

Meet the Characters

In an opera, the 'principal characters' are the main people in the story. Each character is usually sung by a specific type of singer, based on their voice range.

• Driada: A female character, sung by a soprano (the highest female voice).
• Ibetto: A male character, sung by a tenor (a high male voice).
• Martano: A male character, sung by a baritone (a middle-range male voice).
• Gian della Tolfa: A male character, sung by a bass (the lowest male voice).

How the Opera is Organized

Operas are usually divided into parts called 'acts', much like chapters in a book or scenes in a play. Il macigno has either two or three acts, depending on how it's performed. Each act contains different musical pieces, like songs for solo singers (called arias), duets, and parts for the chorus (a group of singers).

Act One: The Beginning

The first act sets the scene and introduces the main characters. It starts with an introduction and a chorus, where many singers perform together. We meet characters like Lionetta, Martano, and Driada. There are also important scenes between Driada and Ibetto, and a dramatic moment involving Martano.

Act Two: Part One

This part continues the story, often building up the tension. It includes songs by Ibetto and Driada, and scenes with Lionetta and other women. Gian della Tolfa and the Priore (a religious leader) also have a part, along with the chorus. Martano sings a solo, and there's a big scene involving Gian della Tolfa and Martano with other characters.

Act Two: Part Two or Act Three: The Climax

This final section brings the story to its most exciting point. It features interactions between Ibetto and Driada, and a dramatic confrontation that includes Martano and the chorus. This is where the main conflict of the story usually reaches its peak.