Between October 21 and 27, Bucharest National Opera continues the series of memorable performances, bringing on stage classic titles from the international lyrical and choreographic repertoire, offering the audience unforgettable artistic experiences: Sleeping Beauty by Tchaikovsky, Aida by Verdi, Don Quixote by Minkus and Mozart’s The Marriage of Figaro.
The Sleeping Beauty (by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky) – Wednesday, October 23, 6:30 PM
Bringing timeless stories into the modern era has become an irresistible temptation for choreographers worldwide. The ballet “The Sleeping Beauty” by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, based on Charles Perrault’s 1697 fairy tale “La belle au bois dormant,” premiered at the Mariinsky Theatre in St. Petersburg in 1890, choreographed by Marius Petipa. It quickly entered the international repertoire of classic ballet and has seen significant reimaginings of both its libretto and choreography in recent decades. Modern interpretations have often cast new light on both the story and the music. The tale continues to fascinate generations through films, puppet shows, musicals, and animations, captivating children and grandparents alike.
Aida (by Giuseppe Verdi) – Friday, October 25, 6:30 PM
Giuseppe Verdi’s opera Aida, with a libretto by Antonio Ghislanzoni, was inspired by an ancient Egyptian legend. This opera is considered a pinnacle of Verdi’s work. The story was brought to writer Camille du Locle by Egyptologist Auguste Mariette, the first director of the Cairo Museum. Aida premiered at the Cairo Opera House on December 24, 1871, coinciding with the opening of the Suez Canal. More than a historical depiction, Aida portrays a tragic love story where the themes of love—romantic, patriotic, and filial—are central. Other significant themes include sacrifice, respect for law and country, and the humiliation of the defeated. Amneris, the Egyptian princess, personifies jealousy and envy, driving the narrative forward.
Don Quixote (by Ludwig Minkus) – Saturday, October 26, 6:30 PM
Ludwig Minkus’ ballet Don Quixote, based on Miguel de Cervantes’ iconic novel Don Quixote de La Mancha, premiered at the Bolshoi Theatre in Moscow in 1869 with choreography by Marius Petipa. While Don Quixote’s tale inspired numerous ballets, the 1869 Bolshoi production was especially successful, cementing Minkus’ role as the official composer of the Imperial Ballet in St. Petersburg. The lively music complements the tale of the lovers Kitri and Basil, aided by Don Quixote, who mistakes Kitri for his idealized Dulcinea. The ballet ends with a vibrant wedding celebration. This production, full of rhythm, color, and the vivacious atmosphere of a Spanish village, is a beloved and enduring favorite of the Bucharest National Opera.
The Marriage of Figaro (by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart) – Sunday, October 27, 6:30 PM
Mozart’s comic opera The Marriage of Figaro, based on Pierre Beaumarchais’ play, was the first collaboration between Mozart and librettist Lorenzo da Ponte. The opera, which premiered at the Burgtheater in Vienna on May 1, 1786, tells the story of love, jealousy, and trickery in an aristocratic household. Although its initial run was short, the opera’s success was undeniable. Audience enthusiasm often led to extended performances, prompting Emperor Joseph II to issue a decree limiting encores. In 1789, The Marriage of Figaro was revived, with adjustments made by Mozart and da Ponte. The opera continues to be celebrated for its complex characters and captivating music.
Tickets available at http://tickets.operanb.ro and at the Bucharest National Opera Box Office.
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