Some productions are about the music. Others, the performances. And then there are productions like Riccardo Zandonai’s Francesca da Rimini where the set design is the undeniable star, pulling you into a world so lush, so visually arresting, that you’re as likely to lose yourself in the scenery as you are in the music.
Let’s talk about that wallpaper—a black floral motif with exquisite shading that creates a sense of depth, sprawling across a white background and scaling the grand walls on either side of the stage. It doesn’t just frame the action; it becomes part of the storytelling. The intricate detail demands your attention, even as the singers deliver heart-wrenching arias. Beneath it all, the bottom third of the set features white wood frame molding, grounding the scene in a refined elegance. And those three long wooden steps? They draw you right into the story, inviting you to ascend into this opulent world.
Through towering glass windows, we catch fleeting glimpses of a breathtaking view. Is it a countryside? An estate? It doesn’t matter. What does matter is how those green plants and monochromatic furniture work together to keep the focus firmly on our storytellers, while still whispering of the grandeur just beyond. It’s a balance of restraint and decadence that leaves you craving more with every glance.
And then there are the costumes—a masterclass in tailoring. Shades of black dominate the palette, yet each piece feels fresh, modern, and distinct. The juxtaposition of sleek silhouettes against the backdrop of those textured walls creates a kind of fashion runway energy. Was I at an opera, or a 2-hour-and-30-minute haute couture presentation? At times, it felt like the models simply happened to sing, their movements so elegant, so deliberate.
It’s rare to find a production where every detail, from the tossed flowers to the perfectly placed lighting, works in concert to create a visual masterpiece. But Francesca da Rimini achieves this effortlessly. It’s a feast for the eyes, and yet, it never distracts from the heart of the story. Instead, it enhances it, wrapping the audience in a world so complete, so meticulously crafted, that you can’t help but be swept away.
If you’ve yet to experience this production, do yourself a favor and immerse yourself in the behind-the-scenes magic here and the official trailer here. But be warned: once you’ve seen this, no other set design will ever quite measure up.
Curious about the looks we’d wear to these incredible shows? Head over to the post to explore our curated fashion takes—each outfit is crafted to capture the spirit of the occasion. HERE
If something stirred while reading this, Creativity Unleashed is a 10-day experience designed to help you begin again—with less pressure and more joy. HERE!
