The context is England's Civil War between the Roundheads (the Parliamentarians, or Puritans of the title) and the Cavaliers (Royalists). A love triangle between Arturo (a Puritan), Riccardo (a Royalist) and the beautiful Elvira results in a drama of escapes, disguises and captures, during which Elvira loses her reason, before a final pardon restores her senses and unites her with her beloved Arturo. The lead tenor role is notoriously difficult and Juan Diego Flórez shows no strain or difficulty throughout the role. Opera fans will undoubtedly be impressed with the overall production and the tenor's performance in particular.
| Actor | Role |
|---|---|
 Juan Diego FlórezLord Arturo Talbo | Lord Arturo Talbo |
 Nino MachaidzeElvira | Elvira |
 Ildebrando d'ArcangeloSir Giorgio Valton | Sir Giorgio Valton |
| UUgo GuagliardoLord Gualtiero Valton | Lord Gualtiero Valton |
 Gabriele VivianiSir Riccardo Forth | Sir Riccardo Forth |
| GGianluca FlorisSir Bruno Roberton | Sir Bruno Roberton |
| NNadia PirazziniEnrichettta di Francia | Enrichettta di Francia |
| MMichele MariottiConductor | Conductor |