Composer

:

Ambroise Thomas

Genre

:

Opera

Style

:

Opera

Compose Date

:

1850

"Le songe d'une nuit d'été" is an opera composed by Ambroise Thomas, with a libretto by Jules Barbier and Michel Carré. The opera is based on William Shakespeare's play "A Midsummer Night's Dream" and was first performed at the Opéra-Comique in Paris on April 20, 1850. The plot of the opera follows the same basic storyline as the play. The fairy king Oberon and his queen Titania are in a dispute over a young Indian boy. Meanwhile, a group of human lovers, including Hermia, Lysander, Demetrius, and Helena, become entangled in a web of mistaken identities and love potions. The mischievous fairy Puck causes chaos and confusion throughout the story, but ultimately everything is resolved and the characters find happiness. The opera is divided into four acts and features a variety of musical styles, including arias, duets, and ensemble pieces. The music is characterized by its lightness and playfulness, with many sections featuring lively dance rhythms and colorful orchestration. One of the most famous movements from the opera is the "Ballet des Sylphes," which features a group of ethereal fairy dancers. This section is known for its delicate, shimmering orchestration and graceful melodies. Overall, "Le songe d'une nuit d'été" is a charming and whimsical opera that captures the spirit of Shakespeare's original play. Its premiere was well-received by audiences and critics alike, and it remains a popular work in the operatic repertoire to this day.

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