Leoncavallo, Ruggero. (1857-1919)
Autograph Letter about Costumes for "Zazà"
An interesting autograph letter from the Italian opera composer, asking a friend to send him fashion plates from 50 years earlier as inspiration for his opera Zazà. Dated Milan, February 8, 1903. Translated from the French, in part: "Dear friend and collaborator - In my long letter of yesterday, I forgot to ask you a big favor which only you can accomplish for me! I need some illustrations from fashion magazines of the years from 1850 to 1855, the early years of the Second Empire. Illustrations of men and women with indications of the fabrics and colors for both sexes! It is for Zazà, I would like to recall if the dress of that era is more picturesque than that of our own. I'm counting on your goodwill..." 4 pp. on a (separated) bifolium.Zazà, the story of a French music hall singer and her affair with a married lover, premiered at the Teatro Lirico di Milano on 10 November 1900 starring Rosina Storchio as Zazà, Edoardo Garbin as Milio, Mario Sammarco as Cascart and Clorinda Pini-Corsi as Anaïde, and conducted by Arturo Toscanini. An instant success, it was quickly performed around the world. (14488)
Autograph Letter Opera