‘...the production is a pleasure which deserves to be repeated’
- The Scotsman

★★★★ - The Times
★★★★ - The Herald

Back by popular demand, Sir Thomas Allen (The Marriage of Figaro, The Magic Flute, Don Giovanni) creates a riotous production of Rossini’s beloved comedy. The action centres around Figaro, one of opera’s most delightful characters and perhaps the only voice of reason in a world of young love and ageing folly. When Count Almaviva sets his sights on the beautiful Rosina, he enlists Figaro – barber, fixer, and all-round man of action – to help woo her. It is no easy feat: Rosina’s guardian Doctor Bartolo keeps her under lock and key with the intention of marrying her himself!

The multiplying disguises, comic hijinks, and daring escapes engineered by Figaro are enhanced by Simon Higlett’s enchanting designs, bright with Spanish colours. This revival is sung in English in a translation by Amanda Holden (Falstaff 2021) for a fresh and immediate spin on Rossini’s larger-than-life characters and antics.

With Rossini’s signature toe-tapping ensembles, high-speed patter, and lively coloratura arias, this bel canto masterpiece is a joyful theatrical experience packing in one comic scene after another. Here, Scottish Opera unites Samuel Dale Johnson (Eugene Onegin and Pagliacci 2018) as the titular barber, with Anthony Gregory (Anthropocene 2019) and Simone McIntosh (in her Scottish Opera debut) as the young lovers. Rounding out the other side of the scheming are David Stout (Nixon in China 2020) and John Molloy (A Midsummer Night's Dream 2022).

Kindly supported by The Scottish Opera Syndicate
Part of Scottish Opera's 2023/24 season

Mention opera and most people think of singing and music – but this is only part of the overall experience. What about scenery, costumes, lighting, direction and choreography? 

For those who are visually impaired, our audio description service provides a live commentary during the show, relating the action on stage without compromising the music. As part of the experience, a recorded introduction to the opera is available in advance, as well as a live audio introduction before the start of the performance. 

You can book tickets for audio-described performances via the venue box offices.

Theatre Royal Glasgow:
28 October 2023, 7.15pm

Festival Theatre Edinburgh: 
11 November 2023, 7.15pm

Eden Court, Inverness:
18 November 2023, 7.15pm

His Majesty's Theatre, Aberdeen:
25 November 2023, 7.15pm

Call your local box office to book, or book online. Discounts available. Guide dogs are welcome. Find out more