Movie spotlight
Les Boréades
Director Robert Carsen and his creative team flood the stage with summer blossoms, drifts of autumn leaves, winter snows and thunderous spring storms. The cast of 140 are attired in elegant costumes inspired by late 1940s Dior. This mythical tale of a young queen, Alphise, determined to abdicate rather than contemplate an enforced marriage to a descendant of Boreas, is nothing less than highly-charged.
Insights
Plot Summary
This opera by Rameau tells the story of Prince T lemaque of Boréade, who is beloved by the sorceress Médée and the goddess Flora. He is torn between his love for the shepherdess Alphise and the enchantress Médée. His eventual choice to be with Alphise leads to a dramatic confrontation with the powerful Médée.
Critical Reception
Robert Carsen's production of Rameau's final opera, Les Boréades, was generally well-received for its imaginative staging and Rameau's masterful score. Critics praised the blend of fantasy and human emotion, highlighting the visual splendor and the compelling performances that brought the complex narrative to life. The production was noted for its fidelity to Rameau's intricate musical and dramatic intentions.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for Carsen's innovative and visually stunning production.
Lauded the grandeur and complexity of Rameau's score.
Noted for strong vocal performances across the main cast.
Google audience: Information on Google user reviews specifically for this 2003 production is not readily available.
Fun Fact
Les Boréades is Rameau's last completed opera, though it was not premiered until 1964, over 200 years after his death.
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