Composer

:

Jacques Offenbach

Genre

:

Opera

Style

:

Operetta

Compose Date

:

1862

First Performance

:

1862

Average_duration

:

58:35

Les bavards, also known as The Chatterboxes, is an opera composed by Jacques Offenbach. The opera was composed in 1862 and premiered on December 24th of the same year at the Théâtre des Bouffes-Parisiens in Paris, France. The libretto was written by Charles Nuitter and Étienne Tréfeu. The plot of Les bavards revolves around a group of characters who are all obsessed with talking. The main character, Monsieur Choufleuri, is a wealthy merchant who is determined to become a member of high society. He invites a group of aristocrats to his home for a musical soirée, but his lack of taste and refinement is quickly exposed. The other characters include Choufleuri's daughter, Ernestine, who is in love with a poor artist named Alexis, and a group of social climbers who are all vying for a place in high society. The opera is divided into three acts, each with its own set of musical movements. The first act features a lively overture and several arias and duets that introduce the characters and their motivations. The second act is the soirée itself, with a series of musical numbers that showcase Choufleuri's attempts to impress his guests. The third act features a comic resolution to the various plotlines, with a final ensemble number that brings all the characters together. One of the key characteristics of Les bavards is its use of satire and parody. Offenbach was known for his ability to poke fun at the social conventions of his time, and Les bavards is no exception. The opera is filled with witty dialogue and musical numbers that lampoon the pretensions of the upper classes. At the same time, the music itself is light and playful, with catchy melodies and lively rhythms that keep the audience engaged. Overall, Les bavards is a charming and entertaining opera that showcases Offenbach's talent for satire and musical comedy. Its premiere in 1862 was a great success, and it has remained a popular work in the operatic repertoire ever since.

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