Composer

:

Jules Massenet

Genre

:

Opera

Style

:

Opera

First Performance

:

1877

Average_duration

:

148:12

"Le roi de Lahore" is an opera in five acts composed by Jules Massenet. The libretto was written by Louis Gallet and is based on a play by the French writer Michel Carré. The opera was first performed at the Palais Garnier in Paris on April 27, 1877. The plot of "Le roi de Lahore" is set in ancient India and revolves around the love story of the king of Lahore, Alim, and his beloved Sita. The king is torn between his love for Sita and his duty to his people, who are threatened by the invading army of the king of Ghazni. The story is also complicated by the presence of a rival suitor for Sita's hand, the warrior Scindia. The opera is characterized by its lush and exotic score, which features a mix of French and Indian musical elements. The opening movement, a prelude, sets the tone for the opera with its sweeping melodies and colorful orchestration. The first act introduces the main characters and sets up the conflict between Alim and Scindia. The second act features a grand procession and a love duet between Alim and Sita. The third act is the most dramatic, with a battle scene and the death of Scindia. The fourth act is a celebration of Alim's victory, while the final act sees the tragic end of the love story between Alim and Sita. "Le roi de Lahore" was a critical and commercial success at its premiere, and it remains one of Massenet's most popular operas. Its exotic setting and lush score have made it a favorite of audiences around the world. The opera's themes of love, duty, and sacrifice continue to resonate with audiences today.

More....