Description

Jean-Philippe Rameau: Les Boréades - Opéra National de Paris (2-DVD Set)

UPC: 0809478000990

Product Features

Composer: Jean-Philippe Rameau
Opera: Les Boréades (1763)
Cast:Orchestra: Les Arts Florissants
- Alphise: Barbara Bonney
- Abaris: Paul Agnew
- Calisis: Toby Spence
- Borée: Laurent Naouri
- Adamas, Apollon: Nicolas Rivenq
- Sémire: Anna-Maria Panzarella
- Bonlée: Stéphane Degout
Conductor: William Christie
Choreography: Edouard Lock, featuring La La La Human Steps
Director: Robert Carsen
Stage & Costume Design: Michael Levine
Lighting Design: Peter van Praet & Robert Carsen
Picture Format: NTSC
Sound Formats: LPCM Stereo, DTS Surround Sound
Subtitles: English, French, German, Spanish
Running Time: Approx. 200 minutes
Region Code: All Regions
Bonus Feature: The Triumph of Love, interviews with Robert Carsen, William Christie, Barbara Bonney, Paul Agnew, and Laurent Naouri.

Overview

Jean-Philippe Rameau's Les Boréades, an opera originally abandoned in 1763 and rediscovered over 200 years later, is presented in this stunning production by the Opéra National de Paris, featuring Les Arts Florissants under the direction of William Christie. Directed by Robert Carsen, the opera tells the story of Queen Alphise, who is determined to renounce her throne rather than submit to an arranged marriage. The production is a visual spectacle, with sets that evoke the changing seasons and costumes inspired by the 1940s Dior fashion house.

The 140-member cast, including soloists, chorus, and dancers, delivers a captivating performance, combining Rameau’s bold and rhythmic score with modern choreography by Edouard Lock, founder of La La La Human Steps. The opera culminates in a story of divine love, where the power of love triumphs over darkness. Filmed in high-definition, this DVD captures the magic and vibrancy of this acclaimed production.

Interesting Facts

Les Boréades was Rameau's final opera, written in 1763 but not performed until its revival over 200 years later.
This production, directed by Robert Carsen, utilizes innovative stagecraft, flooding the stage with flowers, leaves, snow, and storms to reflect the opera's emotional and seasonal themes.
William Christie is a noted baroque music specialist, and his work with Les Arts Florissants has been pivotal in the revival of Rameau’s operas.
The choreography by Edouard Lock, featuring the modern dance company La La La Human Steps, adds a contemporary edge to this baroque masterpiece.