Così fan tutte Plot Summaries   ON-LINE PROGRAM SUPPLEMENT

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"Così fan tutte," translated as "Thus Do They All," is a captivating tale of love, fidelity, and human nature, set against the backdrop of 18th-century Naples. The opera opens with two officers, Ferrando and Guglielmo, boasting about the unwavering fidelity of their respective fiancées, Dorabella and Fiordiligi. Their older friend, the cynical Don Alfonso, challenges their confidence, asserting that women are inherently fickle and incapable of remaining faithful in the face of temptation. Thus begins a wager that will test the boundaries of love and trust.

Don Alfonso proposes a scheme: the officers will pretend to be called away to war, only to return in disguise and attempt to seduce each other's fiancée. Skeptical yet intrigued, Ferrando and Guglielmo agree to the wager, confident in their lovers' fidelity. Meanwhile, the maid Despina, ever the pragmatist, agrees to assist Don Alfonso in orchestrating the deception, adding her own comedic flair to the unfolding drama.

As the plot thickens, the disguised officers begin their courtship of Dorabella and Fiordiligi, initially met with resistance but ultimately wearing down the women's defenses. Despite their initial devotion, Dorabella and Fiordiligi find themselves drawn to the strangers, leading to a whirlwind of emotional turmoil and self-reflection. The lines between truth and deception blur as the characters navigate the complexities of love and loyalty.

Amidst misunderstandings, mistaken identities, and comedic mishaps, the opera reaches its climax with the revelation of the officers' true identities. Heartbroken and betrayed, Dorabella and Fiordiligi confront their fiancés, unleashing a wave of raw emotion and uncertainty. However, through Don Alfonso's guidance, the characters confront the harsh realities of human nature, ultimately finding solace and forgiveness in each other's arms.

"Così fan tutte" is more than just a comedic romp; it's a poignant exploration of love's fragility and resilience. Through Mozart's sublime music and Da Ponte's witty libretto, the opera invites audiences to reflect on the complexities of relationships and the ever-shifting dynamics of trust and fidelity. In the end, as the couples reunite and reconcile, they emerge wiser and more compassionate, embracing the imperfections of love with newfound understanding and acceptance.

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Last updated 3/8/2024