Don Pasquale

Act I

In his mansion, Don Pasquale, an old, rich bachelor, decides that he is going to take a wife to punish his nephew, Ernesto. Ernesto refuses to marry someone that his uncle approves of because he is in love with a lower class, widowed woman, Norina. Don Pasquale decides that, by marrying someone himself, and providing himself with an heir, Ernesto will be cut off from his monetary support. Dr. Malatesta, a friend of Pasquale, comes by the mansion to suggest a bride for him; his own young sister, who he describes to Pasquale as an angel. Pasquale is thrilled by the idea, and tells Malatesta to set up a meeting with her, rushing him out. Don Pasquale is excited to feel youthful again through his young bride.

Ernesto bursts in, furious at the thought of marrying someone chosen for him by his Uncle. Ernesto declares to his uncle that he loves Norina and will marry no one else, but Don Pasquale counters by saying that he will be kicked out and cut off. Don Pasquale informs Ernesto of