Composer

:

André-Ernest-Modeste Grétry

Genre

:

Opera

Compose Date

:

1789

First Performance

:

March 2, 1789

Average_duration

:

1:13

"Raoul Barbe-bleue" is an opera composed by André-Ernest-Modeste Grétry, a Belgian composer, in 1789. The opera premiered on March 10, 1789, at the Théâtre de Monsieur in Paris, France. The plot of the opera is based on the French folktale of Bluebeard, a wealthy and mysterious nobleman who marries several wives and murders them. The opera is divided into three acts and begins with Raoul, a young and handsome knight, who is in love with a beautiful peasant girl named Boulotte. However, Raoul is already engaged to Princess Hermia, who is in love with him. Raoul is torn between his love for Boulotte and his duty to marry Hermia. Meanwhile, Bluebeard, the wealthy and feared nobleman, is looking for a new wife. He invites several noblewomen to his castle, but they all refuse his proposal after hearing rumors of his past wives' mysterious disappearances. Bluebeard then sets his sights on Boulotte and kidnaps her, intending to make her his next wife. Raoul, determined to save Boulotte, sets out to rescue her from Bluebeard's castle. He confronts Bluebeard and challenges him to a duel. Raoul emerges victorious and rescues Boulotte, but Bluebeard escapes. In the final act, Raoul and Boulotte are reunited, and Raoul decides to marry her instead of Hermia. However, Bluebeard returns and attempts to kidnap Boulotte again. Raoul and Bluebeard engage in another duel, and this time, Bluebeard is killed. Raoul and Boulotte are finally able to marry and live happily ever after. "Raoul Barbe-bleue" is known for its catchy melodies and lively dance numbers. The opera features several musical movements, including a lively overture, a romantic duet between Raoul and Boulotte, and a dramatic finale. The opera also features several comedic characters, including Boulotte's father, who provides comic relief throughout the opera. Overall, "Raoul Barbe-bleue" is a lively and entertaining opera that combines romance, drama, and comedy. It remains a popular opera today and is often performed in opera houses around the world.

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