Cola Rienzi

Rienzi, Cola (Wagner: Rienzi). Tenor. Brother of Irene, he is the Tribune of the people, supporting them against the nobles who try to crush them. (Historically Rienzi lived from 1313 to 1354. In 1347 he defeated the Patricians and was elected Tribune. He was assassinated.) One of his followers is Adriano Colonna, who is in love with Rienzi's sister Irene. Adriano's father Stefano is plotting with the nobles to murder Rienzi. When Stefano is killed in the fight, Adriano's loyalty is tested and he swears to avenge his father's death. As Rienzi attempts to enter the church to address the people, the Cardinal proclaims his excommunication. The Capitol is set on fire and Rienzi and his loyal sister perish in the fire. Arias: Erstehe, hohe Roma, neu! (‘Arise, great Rome, anew!’); Allmächt'ger Vater (‘Almighty Father’ - known as Rienzi's Prayer). Created (1842) by Joseph Tichatschek.