PREMIER!

An Enchanting Tale of Love, Betrayal, and Destiny:
STELLA by Cesare Pugni

The story begins with the rumble of thunder over the Posillipo hills, echoing through the ancient grotto of Pozzuoli. A group of smugglers celebrates the success of their daring escapades under the flickering glow of lanterns, while the salty sea wind tousles the curls of a young woman named Stella. Her gaze, however, is fixed not on the waves but on her companion, Gennaro—a man whose striking presence rivals even the fury of the storm.

Stella’s love for Gennaro burns with the intensity of the tempest. She recalls poetic lines he once shared, words that now mirror her own longing:
“Let the heavens darken with Eurus' foreboding shade,
Let relentless Afr bring storm-laden clouds,
When the dying forest whispers ‘I love’ in its final breath,
Let it be to you…”

Stella’s plea for a dance with her beloved marks a pivotal moment in their love story, but shadows loom on the horizon. Approaching riders and the stern presence of Stella’s father threaten to disrupt their fragile joy.

Caught between familial duty and her heart’s desire, Stella faces her father’s judgment, pleading for Gennaro’s life and vowing her love. Her father hesitates, torn by Stella’s determination and the weight of tradition. In a moment of reprieve, he adorns her with a necklace, and Stella’s impassioned dance transforms the night into a shimmering constellation. But the respite is short-lived, as Gennaro is brought forth, bound and defeated.

In a desperate bid to save him, Stella offers her heart, her future, and her fortune, declaring that Gennaro is the only man who can bring her true happiness. A stolen kiss revives her spirit, but destiny continues to tighten its grip.

As dawn breaks, a new figure emerges—Lusietta, a woman claiming to be Gennaro’s betrothed. The tangled web of love and betrayal begins to unravel amidst the golden hues of morning mist. The seaside town, alive with the festivities of a grand carnival, becomes the stage for an encounter that will seal the fate of all three.

In a whirlwind of dance, Stella’s fiery spirit clashes with Lusietta’s determined devotion. The revelry crescendos as Stella boldly confronts her rival, revealing the truth: “Gennaro has two brides!” The town gasps as Stella lifts Gennaro’s hand, displaying the ring that binds him to her.

The drama culminates in the sacred halls of the Madonna di Piedigrotta, a cavernous church steeped in history and illuminated by celestial light. As Lusietta prepares to marry Gennaro, Stella interrupts with one last, desperate plea:

“Let the heavens darken with Eurus' foreboding shade,
Let relentless Afr bring storm-laden clouds,
When the dying forest whispers ‘I love’ in its final breath,
Let it be to you…”

But Gennaro, tormented by his conflicting emotions, flees. His steps lead him to the rocky shores, where the sea, an eternal witness to human folly, awaits. The waves, dark and alluring, claim him in a haunting embrace, leaving Stella and Lusietta to mourn the man who could not choose between them.

As ballet companies and orchestras around the world continue to rediscover Cesare Pugni, there has never been a better time to explore his work. Whether you're a seasoned ballet enthusiast or new to the art form, Pugni's music offers a gateway to the elegance and passion of classical ballet. Attend a performance, listen to his scores, or simply dive into the fascinating story of a composer who dedicated his life to bringing movement to music. Cesare Pugni may have been an "unsung genius," but his music speaks volumes, reminding us of the timeless beauty of art that moves both body and soul.

Through his groundbreaking collaborations and dedication to his craft, Cesare Pugni not only enriched the world of ballet but also left an indelible mark on the history of music. His works remain a testament to the power of creativity and collaboration, inspiring new generations of dancers, choreographers, and music lovers alike.

Discover Cesare Pugni—a name that deserves to be remembered alongside the greats, and a composer whose melodies continue to enchant audiences around the globe.
Through Cesare Pugni’s evocative music of STELLA, listeners are invited to witness a tale of love that defies storms and hearts that break under the weight of their desires. The ballet’s sweeping drama, set against the vibrant life of Naples, is a feast for the senses—a celebration of passion, sacrifice, and the indomitable force of fate.