La Finta Giardiniera: Mozart’s Early Opera at MC93 in Bobigny

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s opera, La Finta Giardiniera, will be performed at the MC93 in Bobigny from March 24 to April 1, 2026. This production is directed by Julie Delille and features performers from the Paris National Opera Academy.

A rarely performed opera that already sheds light on some of Mozart's major themes... The MC93 in Bobigny presents The Finta Giardiniera, a work by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, in a fresh new production directed by Julie Delille. It will be on stage from March 24 to April 1, 2026. This staging, performed by artists in residence at the Paris Opera’s Academy, highlights one of the composer’s early works. What appears to be a lighthearted comedy gradually reveals a keen exploration of human passions—between thwarted desires and memories of the past.

The story revolves around Sandrina, a marquise forced to go into hiding behind the disguise of a gardener after being stabbed and left for dead by her lover, Count Belfiore. The former lovers find themselves under the same roof, leading to a series of misunderstandings, disguises, and emotional tensions. Staying true to the conventions of opera buffa, the plot moves toward a joyful resolution rooted in recognition and reconciliation.

A Youthful Opera That Showcases Mozart's Signature Style

Composed in 1775 for the Munich Carnival, La Finta Giardiniera already showcases the maturity of Mozart, then just 18 years old. The piece features a well-crafted structure that combines recitatives, arias, and ensembles, effectively advancing the plot while giving each character a distinct musical identity.

Despite its seemingly light nature, opera explores a nuanced understanding of human emotions. Comedic scenes serve a larger purpose, reflecting the persistence of feelings, the often intense nature of romantic relationships, and the challenge of escaping the shadows of the past. These themes foreshadow the more profound explorations that would come to define the composer’s mature works.

An Event Led by the Paris Opera Academy

This production features the resident artists of the Académie de l’Opéra national de Paris, as part of their professional development. Tackling a demanding Mozart score presents a key artistic and educational challenge at the heart of this project.

Julie Delille’s direction offers a modern reinterpretation of the work, while preserving its musical integrity. She emphasizes themes of identity and power dynamics among the characters, ensuring the storyline remains clear and accessible. Presented at MC93 in Bobigny, La Finta Giardiniera provides a rare opportunity to experience a less commonly staged opera, shedding light on the early career of a major composer in the world of lyrical music.

This page may contain AI-assisted elements, more information here.