The Maestro’s Woman* (B)

As Giacomo Puccini composes his last opera, Turandot, we recall his life of passion, romance, and scandal. We begin with his early years of devotion to his mother; follow him as he writes Le Villi, Edgar, and Manon Lescaut; see him provide the fateful voice lessons to his classmate’s wife, Elvira Gemignani, which would lead to their affair, an illegitimate child, and eventually their stormy marriage; experience the artistry of his greatest works, La Boheme, Tosca, and Madame Butterfly; and finally, witness the tragedy of the suicide of Doria Manfredi, the maid who killed herself upon being falsely accused by Elivira of sleeping with Puccini. A faithful biography of Puccini and his fascinating mistress/wife, Elvira, “The Maestro’s Woman,” also features some of opera’s greatest music. Writers: Jan McGrath, Eric Nemoto. Pages: 108. Note: This is a film version of Ms. McGrath’s overall story concept about Puccini and his mistress/wife for which she has written other versions, including a produced stage play, that are completely apart from this script and for which she solely owns all rights to.