[3] The libretto, by Giovanni Bertati, is based on the legend of Don Juan as told by Tirso de Molina in his play The Trickster of Seville and the Stone Guest (c. 1630), leading to comparisons with Mozart's Don Giovanni which had its premiere later in 1787.
Gazzaniga's work is much shorter than Mozart's, and originally formed part of a double-bill with another piece, Il capriccio drammatico.
With his manservant Pasquariello keeping watch outside, Don Giovanni attempts to seduce Donna Anna.
As Don Giovanni woos Donna Ximena, Pasquariello gives Elvira a detailed account all his master's amorous conquests.
Giovanni and Pasquariello enjoy their dinner and sing the praises of food, wine, and Venetian women.