Premiere of Rossini's Semiramide at La Fenice

Background. Semiramide is an opera in two acts by Gioachino Rossini, with a libretto by Gaetano Rossi derived from Voltaire's tragedy Semiramis. Work on the libretto began in October 1822, involving significant changes to the source material. The opera was Rossini's last work for the Italian theatre, concluding his period of productivity for Italian stages before his move to Paris.

Premiere. The opera was first performed at La Fenice in Venice on 3 February 1823. La Fenice, known as a landmark in Italian theatre history, hosted this premiere as part of its tradition of famous operatic premieres. The event was notable for its virtuoso singing roles, reflecting Rossini's increasingly florid vocal style during his Italian period.

Reception. Following the premiere, Semiramide was performed twenty-eight times during the remaining season in Venice. The major role had been written with Isabella Colbran in mind, but her vocal powers had greatly diminished by the time of the Venice premiere, and other prima donnas emerged in the major roles by about 1825. The opera subsequently received presentations in other cities, including Paris, Milan, and Vienna.