Librettist: Salvatore Cammarano
Based on, Alzire, ou Les Américains a play by Voltaire.

Cast of Characters

• Alvaro, Bass,father of Gusmano, initially Governor of Peru
• Gusmano, Baritone,Governor of Peru
• Ovando, Tenor,a Spanish Duke
• Zamoro, Tenor,leader of a Peruvian tribe
• Ataliba, Bass,leader of a Peruvian tribe
• Alzira, Soprano,Ataliba's daughter
• Zuma, Mezzo-soprano,her maid
• Otumbo, Tenor,an American warrior
• Spanish officers and soldiers, Americans of both sexes.

Setting

Lima and other regions of Peru, about the middle of the sixteenth century.

Premiere

Teatro San Carlo, Naples, Italy; 12^th August 1845.

Plot

Spanish soldiers have invaded Peru. Numerous unsuccessful attempts have been made to dislodge them. Amidst the chaos, Alzira is imprisoned. Gusmano covets Alzira and trades Zamora's life for her hand in marriage. Gusmano and Alzira are about to be married when Zamora enters and stabs Gusmano to death. Dying, Gusmano blesses the marriage of Alzira and Zamora.

Memorable Music

Dio della guerra
Da Gusman, su fragil barca
Anima mia!
Irne lungi ancor dovrei
I numi tuoi

Copyright © Stephen L. Parker, 1996