Rossini's 'Eduardo e Cristina' was a huge success in its day, but as perhaps the last centone opera (one assembled from previously existing material) by a major composer, it became forgotten under the subsequent tide of Romantic idealism. Today we can put these prejudices aside and enjoy this masterful creation for what it is: a hugely entertaining parade of beautiful and spectacular musical `hits' set to a familiar story of secret love, dramatic crisis and triumphant resolution.