3 PM | OLD ROCOCO - THE LIFE OF GIOCCHINO ROSSINI

2009 | Opera | 1h 22m | Not rated

Shot on location in Italy, this fascinating documentary tells the story of the greatest Italian composer of the day, author of the most popular of all comic operas, The Barber of Seville, a wealthy, successful, prolific composer who at the age of 37 suddenly gave up writing for the stage.

The programme asks why this happened. It explores the myth of Rossini’s personality, celebrates the music he wrote for the stage, church and singers and chamber groups. It traces his life, set against the backdrop of the historical events taking place in Italy and through extensive performance excerpts from all his best known operas as well as less famous works.

Featuring Joan Sutherland, Cecilia Bartoli and many others.

This documentary is in advance of the screening of the lesser known Rossini opera - Le Comte Ory - to be screened 12 May.

Note the start time is 3pm (1500). Ticket price is FREE