HBO’s Succession writer scripts new ending to Puccini’s Turandot for Washington National Opera
- Puccini’s unfinished opera about a Chinese princess now has an alternative ending, with words from Susan Soon He Stanton, who wrote for the TV series Succession
- It is not the first ending written, but Stanton and Washington National Opera artistic director Francesca Zambello believe this one would please Puccini himself
Ever since Giacomo Puccini died without finishing his last opera, Turandot, audiences have thrilled to its soaring melodies, including “Nessun Dorma”, but also perhaps lamented the lack of a proper ending.
Now the Washington National Opera (WNO) is offering an alternative, commissioning new words and music for the final 18 or so minutes. The production, with libretto by Susan Soon He Stanton and music by Christopher Tin, runs from May 11 to July 25.
Turandot tells of a Chinese princess who condemns all her suitors to have their heads chopped off unless they can answer three riddles. When an unknown prince manages to do this, Turandot is obliged to marry him, but he gives her a way out of the bargain if she can guess his identity.
In the final scene, according to the original libretto, the prince kisses Turandot and then – confident he has won her love – reveals that his name is Calaf. The opera concludes amid general rejoicing.
Francesca Zambello, artistic director of the WNO, is among those who find this ending less than satisfying.