Hamlet
Hamlet
Grand opera in five acts
Librettists Jules Barbier, Michel Carré
The phenomenon of “Opheliamania”, which spread in France after the Parisian performance of Shakespeare’s tragedy Hamlet by William Abbot’s English theatre company in 1827, shaped French culture and opera production for three decades, thanks in part to the unique stage presence of the actress Harriet Smithson. Opera, in particular, drew inspiration from extremes – from delicate and ethereal women to grotesque and diabolical images that epitomise the dichotomy of good and evil. It is therefore not surprising that Shakespeare’s tragedy, especially after the French translation by Alexandre Dumas (the Elder), was set to music by Ambroise Thomas in the genre of grand opera. The decision by librettists Jules Barbier and Michel Carré to simplify the plot proved to be the right one and has stood the test of time, despite some harsh criticism from English-speaking audiences. By focussing on Hamlet’s fundamental existential question and the conflict between two couples, they ensured the linear clarity of the opera. In the coming season, Thomas’ Hamlet will be performed for the first time in the history of Maribor Opera under the direction of the renowned director Frank Van Laecke.
Ondina Otta Klasinc Hall
Cast
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