Composer

:

Léo Delibes

Genre

:

Opera

Style

:

Opera

Compose Date

:

before 1891

Publication Date

:

1893

First Performance

:

Mar 24, 1893

Kassya is an opera composed by Léo Delibes, a French composer, in 1893. The libretto was written by Edmond Gondinet and Philippe Gille. The opera premiered at the Opéra-Comique in Paris on January 19, 1893. The plot of Kassya revolves around the titular character, a young woman who is forced to marry a wealthy man named Prince Basil. Kassya is in love with a poor artist named Boris, but her father, a wealthy merchant, disapproves of their relationship. Kassya is torn between her love for Boris and her duty to her family. The first act of the opera takes place in Kassya's father's house, where she is preparing for her wedding to Prince Basil. Boris arrives and declares his love for Kassya, but she tells him that she cannot be with him. The second act takes place at the wedding ceremony, where Kassya is visibly unhappy. Boris tries to convince her to run away with him, but she refuses. In the third act, Kassya is living with Prince Basil in his palace. She is still unhappy and misses Boris. Boris sneaks into the palace to see her, but they are caught by Prince Basil. Boris is arrested and sentenced to death. Kassya begs Prince Basil to spare Boris's life, and he agrees on the condition that Kassya renounces her love for Boris. In the final act, Kassya is torn between her love for Boris and her duty to Prince Basil. She ultimately decides to stay with Prince Basil, but Boris is released from prison and comes to see her. Kassya and Boris declare their love for each other, but Kassya ultimately decides to stay with Prince Basil. Kassya is known for its lush orchestration and beautiful melodies. The opera features a number of memorable arias, including Kassya's "Je suis Kassya" and Boris's "Ah! Quand reviendra-t-il?" The opera also features a number of dance movements, including a waltz and a polonaise. Overall, Kassya is a romantic and emotional opera that explores themes of love, duty, and sacrifice. It is a testament to Delibes's skill as a composer and remains a beloved work in the operatic repertoire.

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