Composer

:

Leos Janácek

Genre

:

Opera

Style

:

Opera

Publication Date

:

1922

First Performance

:

Nov 23, 1921

Average_duration

:

81:09

Káta Kabanová is an opera composed by Leos Janácek, a Czech composer, in 1921. The opera is based on the play "The Storm" by Alexander Ostrovsky. The plot revolves around the life of Káta Kabanová, a young woman who is trapped in a loveless marriage and longs for freedom. The opera is set in a small town in Russia, where Káta lives with her husband Tichon, his overbearing mother Kabanicha, and their extended family. Káta is constantly belittled and controlled by her mother-in-law, who disapproves of her every move. Káta finds solace in the arms of Boris, a young man who is also trapped in a loveless marriage. As their love affair intensifies, Káta becomes increasingly conflicted and guilty. She confides in her friend Varvara, who encourages her to run away with Boris. However, Káta ultimately decides to stay with her husband and face the consequences of her actions. The opera is divided into three acts, each with its own distinct musical style and mood. The first act is characterized by a sense of foreboding and tension, as Káta struggles to resist her feelings for Boris. The second act is more lyrical and romantic, as Káta and Boris express their love for each other. The final act is tragic and emotional, as Káta faces the consequences of her actions and ultimately takes her own life. Káta Kabanová premiered in Brno, Czechoslovakia, on November 23, 1921. The opera was initially met with mixed reviews, but has since become one of Janácek's most popular works. The opera's themes of love, guilt, and societal pressure continue to resonate with audiences today.

More....