J. Haydn. The Apothecary

"Orpheus" media platform presents the premiere of Joseph Haydn's comic opera "The Apothecary" in a theatrical and concert version.

"Lo speziale" ("The Apothecary") is Joseph Haydn's most famous opera, composed in 1768 specifically for the opening of the new Eszterháza Palace Theatre. It combines the traditions of the Viennese school and Italian opera buffa. The rapidly developing plot, expressive melodies, and vividly defined characters all contribute to the opera's success with audiences.

The plot, based on a libretto by Carlo Goldoni, revolves around a love quadrangle: an old pharmacist, his sly ward, and two young men who are in love with her.

The poor man Megnone has entered the service of the pharmacist Sempronio because he is in love with his ward, Griletta. The wealthy man Volpino and the pharmacist himself are also infatuated with her. The old man wants to marry Griletta and invites a notary. Mengone and Volpino appear, disguised as notaries, with wedding contracts, each inscribed in their own names. The enraged pharmacist sends them both away. Then Volpino, disguised as a noble Turk, offers Sempronio a position as the Turkish court apothecary in exchange for the girl. He refuses. Enraged, Volpino smashes all the utensils in the house. Mengone runs to the rescue and saves the apothecary, who agrees to his marriage to Griletta, leaving Volpino destitute...

PERFORMERS:

Musica Viva Moscow Chamber Orchestra,

Conductor: People's Artist of the Russian Federation Alexander Rudin;

Griletta - Liliya Gaysina, soprano;

Volpino - Yana Dyakova, mezzo-soprano;

Menione - David Sanikidze, tenor; Sempronio - Mikhail Nor, tenor.

Directed by Varvara Timofeeva

Chamber Hall of the Moscow International Performing Arts Center, Moscow, December 30, 2025