Musica a Palazzo

Intimate Opera sung beautifully in an elegant palazzo. It's a good idea to turn up circa 10-15 minutes before 8.00pm (or the scheduled start) as paperwork needs to be signed (as to watch you need to become a member) and seating is on a first-come first-served basis. Be warned, the entrance can be tricky to locate as it is discreetly signposted. This is ambulatory Opera with the audience moving to various rooms for different acts. The Palazzo Barbarigo-Minotto is a gracious, grand residence with fine plaster work and paintings. It provides a stunning set with the singers performing almost in the round, whilst the audience are sat on red seats. There is interaction with the spectators. During the interval we were treated to a glass of prosecco. If you can, step onto the balcony and admire the view across the canal. We saw Rigoletto. The singers were excellent and Verdi's music was played with gusto and panache by the ensemble (violin, piano and cello). The costumes were designed by Anthony Knight - the renowned theatrical and fashion designer (he has worked as a top pattern maker including for Calvin Klein and Moschino). Musica a Palazzo (Palace Music) is a wonderful way to spend an evening in Venice. It is like attending an 18th or 19th century Society Salon - indeed the parlour known as the Room of Wisdom, where the first act was performed, was clearly designed to celebrate The Arts - it has monochromes representing Science and plaster framing representing Painting, Sculpture, Music and Poetry. The central ceiling lozenge is a replica of the original oil painting by Tiepolo, of Virtue and Nobility defeating Ignorance (the bat near the winged imp/genie symbolises Vice). The painting was commissioned by Gregorio Barbarigo (the nobleman who lived in the Palace) as part of the redecorating of the Palazzio in 1741 to celebrate Gregorio's marriage in 1739

Nice experience to go to an opera in an old merchants house. The history behind the house/mansion is really impressive. The Opera was our first and we enjoyed it, even though we don't understand Italian. The only down side was the they really packed you in, the seats were to close together and if you were at the neck you couldn't really see

One of the best evenings I have ever experienced. The singers are fantastic both as singers and actors. To be so near them draws one in until you feel as if you are a part of the 'drama'. Very good price for something so good.

One of the best experiences I've ever had in my life. Incredible singers, incredible ambiance, champagne during intermission. Super romantic! Would add photos but they were forbidden. Good to keep that place a secret!!!

Fantastic fantastic experience. This was the best opera we've ever attended. The actors were fun and warm, interactive. Patrons raced to the next room for the best seats but all seats were great. Highly recommend you check this out!!

I tell everyone lucky enough to visit Venice that this is the best intimate music experience one can have. The way opera ( and other musical performances ) were presented when large auditoriums and orchestras weren’t available . The quality of talent is stunning. A unique and most enjoyable experience which becomes a highlight of any Italian visit . JUST GO.

I had very high expectations going into the show, and still I was completely blown away! My father is a classical music and opera fan so I had some exposure to La Traviata’s scores, but I did a Spotify listen and read up on it before the show so I know the story better. I’d never seen an live Italian opera before so I was excited to see this classic performance in person. The venue is a historical house, and the three acts of the play are in three different rooms of the house. Every room was absolutely gorgeous. There’s a break in between where Prosecco was served on the house and you got to visit the beautiful balcony and the extra room. Even the bathroom was classically decorated. Now the music, OMG, the music. The opera was an abridged version of the full show, with approximately 9 songs sung by a singing cast of three, live band of 3 players piano, cello and violin. The entire show was a digestible 2 hours with two 10 min break in between. Ms Natalia Roman was Violeta and she was an absolute star. Her voice is so rich and deep and every high note shot straight through my heart and brought tears to my eyes. It was such a delight listening to her. Her counter parts Orfeo Zanetti and Marco Rossi Giovagnoni as Alfredo and Giorgio was also marvelous and three of them did a beautiful rendition of the story. The entire experience was very intimate and powerful. It was a highlight of my 3 week trip in Europe. Pro tip-get there early so you can sit in the first room in front for the best song in the opera. However, the second and third act switch rooms so you want to get in line early to get your ideal seat. In the third room, avoid the seats towards the left because the big table mirror will block your view towards the bed and you can’t see Violeta’s performance when she’s in bed sick and dying. Don’t miss this show and you can thank me later.

Lovely evening. Such a personal experience to enjoy the opera upclose in such an amazing venue! The main singer's acting was impressive with such emotions playing on her face....