“Le Willis”

“Theatre packed, immense success; anticipations exceeded; eighteen calls; finale of first act encored three times”
             – Telegram received by Albina Magi (Puccini’s mother) after the premiere of Le Willis

Flora is joined by Puccini expert Alexandra Wilson, author of The Puccini Problem: Opera, Nationalism, and Modernity and an edited collection, Puccini in Context, to explore the fascinating story behind Giacomo Puccini’s debut opera, Le Willis (“The Fairies”). The work received an enthusiastic reception in 1884, but even with Puccini’s musical lineage in Lucca, the journey to this early success in Milan—one of Europe’s operatic capitals—was anything but assured.

In this episode, Flora and Alexandra get to grips with the complex circumstances surrounding the creation and staging of Le Willis, exploring the factors that influenced Puccini during this formative period. Together, they consider how this first operatic venture not only introduced a distinctive new voice to Italian opera but also laid the foundation for a remarkable career.

Lives in Song: Puccini focuses on one of the most influential opera composers of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Hosted by music historian and writer Flora Willson, the series explores Puccini’s artistic development, historical context, and enduring impact through the lens of his operas.

Across this season, Flora is joined by a range of expert guests to examine the world that shaped Puccini—from his roots in Lucca to his emergence as a key figure in Italian opera. The second season of Lives in Song investigates the personal and cultural forces that informed Puccini’s compositions, offering listeners a deeper understanding of his music and the man behind his enduring works.

Streamed live on Opera Rara’s YouTube channel. Register to receive email ​reminders and a link to the show notes following the stream.