One of the most dramatic of operas, Puccini’s now beloved “shabby little shocker” is set in Rome in 1800 as Napoleon’s troops are fighting the Austrians at Marengo. All of Rome awaits the outcome. This is not an opera whose characters struggle with illness, legends or curses. The issues in “Tosca” are the all too human motivations of its central characters, some of whom are capable of great love and others of even greater cruelty. Baron Scarpia’s obsession with the singer Floria Tosca and her lover’s protection of an escaped political prisoner collide in a spectacular psychological drama. This production is fully set, costumed and staged. The well-deserved international stature of this company is demonstrated by the magnificent reviews from throughout the world.

Monday, February 18, 7:30 p.m.