Rome's 2020 summer opera season presented by the city's opera house will take place at the Circus Maximus, from 16 July to 13 August, the Teatro dell'Opera di Roma has confirmed. The Circus Maximus will host a total of 21 shows under the stars, beginning with Verdi's Rigoletto conducted by Daniele Gatti, on 16 July.  

Construction work on the stage and seating began in recent days, and an added bonus of the prestigious location is being based right beside the workshop that makes the opera house's sets, scenery and costumes. The programme includes The Barber of Seville (22 July-13 Aug) and The Merry Widow (31 July-12 Aug), both of which will be conducted by Stefano Montanari.