In 1843, Giuseppe Verdi discovered a new Italian translation of Shakespeare’s King Lear. The gripping drama of power, love, and betrayal deeply touched him. A king who divides his kingdom based on flattery, two daughters who deceive him with empty words, and a third—Delia—who refuses to be hypocritical and is therefore rejected. It is a story that culminates in war, poisoning, and a father who belatedly recognizes his mistakes.

Verdi saw in this story an opera of unparalleled dramatic power. He collaborated intensively with the librettists Cammarano and later Antonio Somma, who wrote an innovative and ambitious libretto. But due to circumstances, the project came to a standstill. Verdi died without ever having composed a single note of this opera. The libretto subsequently disappeared into the archives for 150 years—a nearly forgotten treasure.

Now this extraordinary project is getting a second life. Based on Verdi’s letters, sketches, and the musical language of his operas from the same period—such as Un Ballo in Maschera and Simone Boccanegra—the music Verdi may have envisioned has been composed. A unique reconstruction, rooted in historical sources and a deep understanding of his style.

This new King Lear offers a rare opportunity: a glimpse into the opera Verdi was never able to complete, but which he nevertheless wanted to create. A work that can finally be heard on Saturday, June 6th, in Harlingen (Grote Kerk, starting at 8:00 PM) and on Sunday, June 7th, in Hoorn (NH, Oosterkerk, starting at 3:00 PM).

Click for the link: Tickets