Composer

:

Ambroise Thomas

Genre

:

Opera

Style

:

Opera

Compose Date

:

1868

Average_duration

:

123:46

Hamlet is an opera composed by Ambroise Thomas, with a libretto by Michel Carré and Jules Barbier. The opera was first performed on March 9, 1868, at the Paris Opéra. The plot of the opera is based on William Shakespeare's play of the same name. The opera is set in Denmark and follows the story of Prince Hamlet, who is grieving the death of his father, the King. Hamlet's mother, Queen Gertrude, has married his uncle, Claudius, who has become the new King. Hamlet is visited by the ghost of his father, who reveals that he was murdered by Claudius. Hamlet decides to avenge his father's death and begins to plot against Claudius. The opera is divided into five acts and features several notable movements, including the famous "Mad Scene" in Act IV, where Ophelia, Hamlet's love interest, goes mad and sings a haunting aria. The opera also features a duet between Hamlet and Ophelia in Act III, where they express their love for each other. One of the characteristics of the opera is its use of French grand opera style, which includes large choruses, ballets, and elaborate sets and costumes. The opera also features a number of arias and duets that showcase the vocal talents of the performers. Hamlet was well-received upon its premiere and has since become one of the most popular operas based on Shakespeare's works. The opera has been performed in numerous productions around the world and has been recorded by several notable singers and conductors.

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