Notre Dame de Paris is the ancient story of Quasimodo, the hunchback bell-ringer of the Notre-Dame Cathedral, and of his tragic and impossible love for beautiful gypsy dancer Esmeralda, a love condemned by hypocrisy and injustice. Esmeralda is in love with the handsome captain of the King's guard, Phoebus, whom, albeit engaged, is not indifferent to the charm of the beautiful gypsy. Frollo, archdeacon of the Cathedral, is also in love with her, and, in a mad raptus, stabs rival Phoebus.

Esmeralda is therefore accused of the attempted murder of the captain of the guards, and thrown into prison, whereas the archdeacon Frollo offers her freedom, in exchange of her body. Horrified, Esmeralda refuses and is freed by Quasimodo, who hides her in his tower. Clopin, a friend of Esmeralda's, misunderstands Quasimodo's intentions and attacks the cathedral to free Esmeralda: the king's guards, to sedate the revolt, kill Clopin, while Quasimodo looks at Frollo handing Esmeralda over to Phoebus, thinking that the latter is here to save her. On the contrary, Phoebus comes to announce that Esmeralda will be hanged.

The conclusion is worthy of the most touching love tragedies: Quasimodo, after assisting at his beloved's hanging, realises Frollo's betrayal, and throws him off the top of the tower. Then, distraught by sorrow, he let himself die next to Esmeralda.

"I had been missing from Italy for 5 years - Cocciante recalls - It is a deep emotion to return to your own Country. There have always been positive reactions after 'Notre-Dame', a show that has united people and cultures throughout the years. We speak of men, women, passions (for better or for worse). Themes that are dramatically contemporary, such as emigration, illegal immigrants, the 'sans papier', undefended cast-offs, such as those populating XV century France under the shadow of the 'Cathedral'. A powerful, violent score, a different way to approach musical theatre".

Cocciante, for the score, used electronic instruments and synthesisers. Notre Dame's strength? He explains it himself: "People sing its airs, its melodies, known throughout the world, as once happened for lyrical opera".

Notre Dame de Paris
Where: Gran Teatro di viale di Tor di Quinto, Rome
When: until the month of June
Info and booking: everyday all day from 11.00 am to 7.00 pm at the number +39 06 33 22 09 90

April.2002

The Roman show (In Italian)
Notredamedeparis