On October 5 at 7:00 p.m., the curtain will rise on the main stage of the Norrlandsoperan for the premiere of The Italian Girl in Algiers. Gioacchino Rossini’s absurd opera from 1813 offers both the classic humor and the sweet melodies that have made this one of his most popular works. In this production, directed by Natalie Ringler in collaboration with costume and set designer Nina Fransson, the story unfolds in the berry forests of Norrland, where the Italians have been replaced by lost Stockholmers. Here, we offer a glimpse behind the scenes leading up to an opera premiere at the Norrlandsoperan.
In our costume workshop, Natalie Fransson’s designs are brought to life by our costume designers.
Set and costume designer Nina Fransson with costume sketches.
Costume fittings are an important and recurring part of the preparations.
Nina Fransson and the Norrlandsoperan costume designers are trying on costumes with the cast members.
In our paintings, the scene comes alive with color and vitality.
Decorating expert Maja Johansson demonstrates how to create growth rings that are visible all the way to the back row.
In our prop shop, they create all the props and test them to make sure they’re ready for the stage.
Everything from blueberry bushes to hunting rifles plays a role in the set design.
Don’t miss the chance to see these creations on stage. The Italian Girl in Algiers will be performed at the Norrlandsoperan from October 5–26 on the Norrlandsoperan’s main stage.
