The opera was first performed on September 26, 1835 at the Teatro di San Carlo in Naples, Italy. Fanny Tacchinardi-Persiani played the title role. The opera is celebrated for the sextet "Chi mi frena" and Lucia's lengthy Mad Scene, a technically and dramatically demanding double-aria "tour de force". The opera was a great success. Every number received a tremendous ovation. Donizetti and the cast were called forth for numerous curtain calls. The opera is number 19 on the Operabase list of the most performed operas worldwide.