Norma is an opera in two acts by Vincenzo Bellini with libretto by Felice Romani. It was first produced at La Scala in Milan on December 26, 1831.
The opera is regarded as a leading example of the bel canto genre, and the soprano prayer "Casta diva" in act 1 is a famous piece. Probably the most important Norma of the first half of the 20th century was Rosa Ponselle who triumphed in the role both in New York and in London. Notable exponents of the title role in the post-war period have been Maria Callas, Leyla Gencer, Joan Sutherland, Montserrat Caballé.
Cast:
Norma - Joan Sutherland
Pollione - Luciano Pavarotti
Adalgisa - Montserrat Caballe
Oroveso - Samuel Ramey
Welsh National Opera
Richard Bonynge - conductor
DECCA 1988