Tale of intrigue and love in classic opera

Zanettin, who was born in Treviso, Italy, and now lives in Venice, has played the role of Tosca many times. "It's a tragedy but very romantic," she said, calling the role one of her favorites and "a dream role for every soprano".

"It's not just about the pursuit of voice but also about acting, since she is a very complicated woman," Zanettin said.

The opera is also a longtime favorite thanks to its stunning arias, such as Vissi d'arte (I Lived for Art), sung by Tosca at a heartbreaking moment when Scarpia, with Cavaradossi as his hostage, poses his ultimatum to her. Also impressive is E lucevan le stelle (And the Stars Were Shining), when Cavaradossi is told that he has an hour left to live and the only thing on his mind is Tosca, so he writes a letter to her and sings the aria.

Alessandra Panzavolta, the opera's director, said in a video greeting to Chinese opera aficionados that the presentation, lighting and props by set designer William Orlandi will help make the version of the classic opera more updated and recognizable than the usual presentations, which rely on historical scenes mirroring June 1800, shortly after the French Revolution.

Soprano Sun Xiuwei also will take to the stage to play the role of Tosca. In 2011, when the NCPA produced its own version of Tosca, she took on the role, Sun said, adding that she has played in 15 opera productions by the NCPA.

"Through working with Panzavolta, who is a female director, I have gained a detailed understanding about the role. Panzavolta brought a woman's perspective to the opera, which is much deeper and sensitive," Sun said. "The character herself is an opera singer, just like me, allowing me to get closer to her and be myself in some parts."