Bellini’s opera is considered the pinnacle of the bel canto repertoire. Pollione, the Roman proconsul of Gaul, has had a secret affair and two children with Norma, a Druid high priestess, but his attention has now turned to a young novice, Adalgisa. Helena Dix, who made her recent Metropolitan Opera debut in the title role, stars as the lovelorn Norma, with Rosario La Spina as the duplicitous Pollione. Miriam Albano is the hapless Adalgisa and Teddy Tahu Rhodes the chief Druid Oroveso. Brad Cohen conducts the Adelaide Symphony Orchestra.

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The zenith of the bel canto era tradition, Norma exemplifies Bellini’s gift for long, flowing melodies and expressive vocal writing, renowned for its lyrical beauty. Norma’s famous aria, “Casta diva”, remains a highlight of the soprano repertoire, immortalised by singers like Maria Callas and Dame Joan Sutherland. Now, Helena Dix, who has performed the role many times including a recent Met debut in the role, leads this concert version in Adelaide.

Set in Gaul during the Roman occupation it follows a scandalous love triangle between Pollione, the Roman governor, Norma, a Druid high priestess, and the young priestess Adalgisa.