Manfroce: Ecuba - Festival Valle d'Itria (2019)

Staged at the 45th Festival della Valle d'Itria in Martina Franca, this 2019 production of Nicola Antonio Manfroce's rare opera Ecuba brings a forgotten early-19th-century tragedy back to the spotlight. Directed, designed, and costumed by Pier Luigi Pizzi, the staging delivers a striking visual interpretation of Giovanni Schmidt's libretto surrounding the aftermath of the Trojan War. Under the musical direction of Sesto Quatrini, the performance features powerful vocal delivery from Lidia Fridman and Carmela Remigio alternating in the title role alongside an accomplished ensemble. Backed by the Orchestra del Teatro Petruzzelli di Bari, this gripping revival offers an intense, rarely-heard exploration of classical myth and maternal grief.