On behalf of Puccini Festival Australia, we are proud to present in Victoria the production of “Le Donne di Giacomo Puccini”. This production started with an idea from Senor Mario Dradi and premiered at Torre del Lago in 2004 with a wonderful cast, including Placido Domingo, acting the role of Giacomo Puccini. The text was written by Piero Rattalino, and the costumes were created for the occasion through a deep study by Ivan Stafanutti, the director of the show.

In pursuit of our commitment to promote the Arts in Australia and more particularly in Victoria, we wanted this production to have local content, and for this we engaged the Director, Caroline Stacey, nominated for two Green Room Awards for 2005 for her direction in Madame Butterfly. Caroline Stacey brings to the production elegance, softness, sensuality and authority that she has displayed in previous production. Caroline has written this fabulous script for this Australian adaptation.

Some of the costumes worn are courtesy of the Puccini Foundation, Torre del Lago, and reflect the period when the operas premiered.

The orchestra is under the direction of Maestro David Kram, a person that has an abundant passion, intellect and creativity that makes him one of the greatest conductors in our country.

We are extremely honoured that the role of Giacomo Puccini is acted by our own Lewis Fiander. An actor with a wealth of experience and brings the character of Giacomo Puccini alive. He leads 5 of the best Puccini voices in Australia today.

We do hope that you enjoy this production.

Manuel Jimenez Navarro

I would like to welcome you to our production of “Le Donne di Giacomo Puccini”.

This is truly an exciting production for us and it is a pleasure to have you in attendance for this innovative performance. After enjoying huge success over the summer season at Torre de Lago, “Puccini’s Women” has been adapted for you, our Australian audience.

It is a unique production showcasing Puccini’s great operas. We hope this performance allows first time opera goers to fall in love with the great composer, and for those avid Puccini followers, to re-create the memories and emotions Puccini evoked in them, when they heard his music for the first time.

I would like to personally extend my thanks to the cast and orchestra, for all their hard work and commitment to make this production a success. This adaptation required a lot of guidance and direction and we recognise the hard work Caroline Stacey and David Kram have put into this production. A special thank you for their time and efforts.

Thank you for your support and I wish you an enjoyable night.

 Elias Juanas