The enchanting opera buffa La Finta Giardiniera (The False Gardener) by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart is set for its absolute premiere in Paraguay, marking a historic cultural milestone. The performances will unfold on 13 and 14 November 2025 in the auditorium of the Faculty of Architecture at the National University of Asunción.
La Finta Giardiniera, composed by a 18-year-old Mozart in 1775, is a sparkling opera buffa in three acts that blends farce, romance and mistaken identity. First performed in Munich, it follows the Marchioness Violante, disguised as the gardener Sandrina, as she seeks her errant lover amid a whirlwind of jealous suitors, comic servants and amorous chaos.
Though overshadowed by Mozart’s later masterpieces, La Finta Giardiniera‘s witty ensembles and lyrical arias showcase his early genius for musical comedy, and emotional depth.
Stellar local ensemble takes the stage
The production will feature soloists and the orchestra from the Bachelor of Music programme at the Faculty of Architecture. Maestro José Miguel Echeverria will conduct the orchestra, while Gabriela Arias handles stage direction. Musical preparation is in the capable hands of Benito Román, with vocal coaching provided by Alejandra Meza.
This homegrown talent underscores the growing vibrancy of classical music education in Paraguay, bringing Mozart’s witty masterpiece to life through dedicated university performers.
A whirlwind of love and confusion in the garden
The opera’s plot centres on a madcap day in the garden of the Podestà’s palace, where Don Anchise finds himself amid utter chaos. Several couples navigate a tangle of romantic pursuits, mistaken identities, and comedic mishaps, all in pursuit of true love.
Mozart’s score, filled with lively arias and ensemble numbers, captures the frivolity and heartache of 18th-century courtship in this early gem from the composer’s oeuvre.
Cast of rising Paraguayan stars
The principal roles will be portrayed by an accomplished lineup of local artists:
- Sandrina (soprano): Macarena González
- Contino Belfiore (tenor): Yennifer Lezcano (soprano)
- Ramiro (mezzo-soprano): Mayra Torres and Cecilia Fleitas (sopranos)
- Podestà (tenor): Agustín Barboza (baritone)
This ensemble promises a fresh and energetic interpretation, highlighting the depth of vocal talent within Paraguay’s emerging opera scene.
This premiere not only introduces Mozart’s delightful work to Paraguayan audiences for the first time but also celebrates the National University’s role in fostering artistic excellence.
Entrance on 13 and 14 November (start time 20:00) to the auditorium of the Faculty of Architecture at the National University of Asunción is free.
Read more: Find this comprehensive guide to Asunción’s Theatres: The way to plays, orchestras, and cultural hotspots in Paraguay’s captial.
