1918day.year
Giacomo Puccini's comic opera Gianni Schicchi premieres at the Metropolitan Opera in New York City.
Giacomo Puccini’s one-act comic opera Gianni Schicchi premieres at New York’s Metropolitan Opera, delighting audiences with its wit and vibrant score.
On December 14, 1918, Puccini's Gianni Schicchi debuted as part of a triple bill at the Metropolitan Opera in New York. The opera, based on a story from Dante’s Divine Comedy, introduced a rare note of comedy into Puccini's typically tragic oeuvre. With its foregrounding of sharp wit, colorful characters, and the famous aria O mio babbino caro, Gianni Schicchi quickly became a favorite. The Met’s lavish production showcased Puccini's skillful orchestration and the company's commitment to modern works. Audiences were captivated by the opera’s blend of humor and humanity, praising both the composer's score and the performers’ flair. Gianni Schicchi has since remained one of the most frequently staged operas in the standard repertoire, celebrated for its sparkling comedy.
Giacomo Puccini
Gianni Schicchi
Metropolitan Opera
New York City