Composer

:

Adolphe Adam

Genre

:

Opera

Style

:

Opera

Compose Date

:

1836

Average_duration

:

104:17

"Le Postillon de Lonjumeau" is an opera comique in three acts composed by Adolphe Adam. The opera was first performed on October 13, 1836, at the Opéra-Comique in Paris. The libretto was written by Adolphe de Leuven and Léon Brunswick. The plot of the opera revolves around the character of Chapelou, a postilion who is in love with the beautiful Madeleine. Chapelou is also a talented singer, and he is discovered by the Marquis de Corcy, who takes him to Paris to become an opera singer. However, Chapelou's success as an opera singer causes him to forget about Madeleine, and he becomes engaged to the Marquis's niece, Madame de Latour. Madeleine, heartbroken, decides to become a nun. However, Chapelou eventually realizes his mistake and goes to the convent to beg for Madeleine's forgiveness. The opera ends with Chapelou and Madeleine reunited and happy. The music of "Le Postillon de Lonjumeau" is characterized by its lively and catchy melodies, as well as its use of comic and romantic themes. The opera contains several memorable arias, including Chapelou's famous "Mes amis, écoutez l'histoire" in the first act, and Madeleine's poignant "Je suis Modeste, la fille du pauvre" in the second act. "Le Postillon de Lonjumeau" was a great success when it premiered in Paris, and it quickly became one of the most popular operas of the 19th century. The opera was also performed in other countries, including Germany, Italy, and the United States. Today, "Le Postillon de Lonjumeau" is still occasionally performed, and it is considered one of Adolphe Adam's most enduring works.

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