Ermanno Wolf-Ferrari’s The Jewels of the Madonna was a spectacular success in its day, yet after a triumphant world tour it gathered dust until its 1953 Italian première, since when it has received but a handful of performances, culminating in May 2015 with this highly acclaimed revival at the Slovak National Theatre, Bratislava. Combining Italian lyricism with the dramatic realism of verismo and colourful folk-music, The Jewels brings mystical atmosphere and sublimely detailed musical effects to its highly suspenseful plot, delivering powerful choruses, seductive love songs, saucy serenades and orgiastic dances.