Plácido Domingo takes on the role of the tragic Francesco Foscari, Doge of Venice, in Verdi's potent and dramatic opera of family loyalties and political intrigue. Thaddeus Strassberger's powerful setting explores the corruption lurking beneath the opulent display of the Venetian court, with spectacular sets and stunning Renaissance-style costumes designed by Kevin Knight and Mattie Ullrich. Tenor Francesco Meli sings Francesco Foscari's son Jacopo, unjustly accused of treason and forced to appeal to his father's mercy, with soprano Maria Agresta as Jacopo's courageous wife Lucrezia, determined to free him at any cost. Antonio Pappano, Music Director of The Royal Opera, conducts one of Verdi's most striking early scores.