Composer

:

Jules Massenet

Genre

:

Opera

Style

:

Opera

First Performance

:

1899

Average_duration

:

121:49

Cendrillon is an opera composed by Jules Massenet, with a libretto by Henri Cain. The opera is based on the classic fairy tale of Cinderella, and was first performed at the Opéra-Comique in Paris on May 24, 1899. The plot of Cendrillon follows the story of Cinderella, a young girl who is mistreated by her stepmother and stepsisters. Despite her difficult circumstances, Cinderella remains kind and hopeful, and dreams of finding true love. With the help of her fairy godmother, Cinderella attends a royal ball and captures the heart of Prince Charming. However, when the clock strikes midnight, Cinderella must flee the ball and leave behind her glass slipper. The prince searches the kingdom for the owner of the slipper, and eventually finds Cinderella, who he marries and lives happily ever after with. Cendrillon is composed of four acts, and features a variety of musical styles, including waltzes, polkas, and mazurkas. The opera is known for its lush orchestration and beautiful melodies, which capture the romantic and magical elements of the fairy tale. The premiere of Cendrillon was a great success, and the opera quickly became one of Massenet's most popular works. It has since been performed in opera houses around the world, and has been adapted into various forms, including ballets and films. One of the key characteristics of Cendrillon is its focus on the emotional journey of the characters. Massenet's music is highly expressive, and captures the inner turmoil and joy of Cinderella and Prince Charming. The opera also features a strong sense of fantasy and magic, with the fairy godmother and other supernatural elements playing a prominent role in the story. Overall, Cendrillon is a timeless and enchanting opera that continues to captivate audiences with its beautiful music and romantic story.

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