Event Pictures
Venue Pictures
ERA2 - Spirit Of Shanghai
@ Shanghai Circus World
Falstaff - Opera
Advertisement
Verdi’s final opera Falstaff, is back at the Shanghai Grand Theatre to kick off the 2025–2026 season. This one’s a comedy—quick-witted, fast-paced, and full of clever ensemble work. Directed by British talent Harry Fehr and featuring stars like Sun Li and Francesca Manzo, it's a lush, cheeky dive into Shakespearean mischief, reimagined in the retro charm of the 1950s.
Composed when Verdi was 80, Falstaff stands as a testament to his late-career brilliance, matching the grandeur of Otello. Adapted by librettist Arrigo Boito from Shakespeare’s The Merry Wives of Windsor and Henry IV, the opera follows the misadventures of a down-on-his-luck aristocrat with warmth and wit rather than scorn. Its intricate choral and ensemble writing showcases Verdi’s musical genius while demanding precision and flair from the performers.
This acclaimed production, originally staged in 2016 to mark the 400th anniversary of Shakespeare’s death, reunites an international creative team for its 2025 revival. With its bold 1950s–60s aesthetic and inventive direction, the Shanghai Opera House breathes new life into Windsor’s whimsical world. Praised for its stylish vision and dynamic performances, Falstaff remains a standout in the company’s repertoire, inviting audiences to rediscover Verdi’s comedic gem.
Advertisement
SmartShanghai.com is the longest-running English online magazine in Shanghai. We are an independent media publication created by a team of long-term, opinionated, and knowledgeable writers. We provide English-speaking residents and visitors with a curated guide to explore and celebrate the best of Shanghai.
