Pagliacci

In the prologue before the opera begins, the clown, Tonio, speaks directly to the audience. Tonio says that this author has written the story about actors, who feel the same feelings as regular people (Si può? Si può).

Act I

The villagers walk around in town as a small traveling theatrical company arrives into the Calabrian town. Canio is the head of the acting troupe, announcing to the villagers what they will perform that night. Someone calls out, joking that Tonio, another troupe member, is secretly in love with Nedda, his wife. Canio warns that, even though he plays a fool in the show, he does not tolerate anyone flirting with his wife in real life. Bells ring from the church as women go to church, and the men go to the tavern. Left alone, Nedda sings about how fearful she is of her husband’s suspicions and jealousy. She wishes to be free, like a bird (Stridono lassu).

Tonio comes and confesses his love for Nedda and tries to rape her. Furious, Nedda grabs a whip, scorns him,