Francesco Cilea (July 23, 1866 – November 20, 1950) was an Italian composer renowned for his operas, particularly "L'arlesiana" and "Adriana Lecouvreur." Born in Palmi near Reggio Calabria, Cilea showed an early passion for music, inspired by a performance of Vincenzo Bellini's "Norma" at the age of four. He pursued his musical education at the Conservatorio di San Pietro a Majella in Naples, where he excelled and earned a gold medal from the Department of Education.

His first opera, "Gina," was presented as his final examination piece in 1889 and attracted the attention of the publishers Sonzogno, leading to further opportunities. Cilea's "La Tilda," a verismo opera, premiered in 1892 and was performed in various Italian theaters and at the Vienna Exhibition.

In 1897, Cilea's opera "L'Arlesiana" premiered at the Teatro Lirico in Milan, featuring the young tenor Enrico Caruso. Despite initial failure, Cilea continually revised the work throughout his life. His most successful opera, "Adriana Lecouvreur," premiered in 1902, again at the Teatro Lirico, and received an enthusiastic reception. This opera remains his best-known work, showcasing a blend of Neapolitan melodic style and French harmonic influences.

Cilea's final opera, "Gloria," premiered in 1907 at La Scala in Milan under Arturo Toscanini's direction but was withdrawn after two performances. Despite this setback, Cilea's contributions to opera are celebrated for their melodic charm and emotional depth. He also served as the director of the Naples Conservatory from 1916 to 1935 and composed chamber music. Cilea passed away in Varazze, near Genoa, in 1950.