Libretto: Giuseppe Giacosa and Luigi Illica
Created in Turin on February 1, 1896
Last performed in Quebec City on May 19, 2016
With the Opéra de Québec Chorus and the Orchestre symphonique de Québec
A masterpiece by Giacomo Puccini, La bohème is one of the most moving and popular operas in the operatic repertoire. The story follows the passionate love affair of Rodolfo, a penniless poet, and Mimi, a fragile young embroiderer. Their meeting, in a freezing attic, is love at first sight, illuminating a daily life marked by poverty. Around them gravitate their artist friends who, amidst laughter, arguments, and carefree spirits, embody the fleeting beauty of youth.
Through music of infinite tenderness, Puccini, a master of verismo, infuses La bohème with raw and authentic emotion, accurately capturing the hopes and sorrows of his characters. With his sublime arias, including the famous “Che gelida manina”, he composes a score rich in contrasts, where bursts of joy and tragedy blend harmoniously. Its refined orchestration and unforgettable melodies make this opera a true gem of the operatic repertoire, capable of moving the listener with every listen.
This production will mark Clemens Schuldt’s debut at the Opéra de Québec. The conductor’s close collaboration with his orchestra brings a unique energy to the production, providing his fabulous cast with an ideal musical setting in which to shine. We can count on Jacques Leblanc’s talented director to move us with this magnificent poetry of everyday life!
Clemens Schuldt
Jacques Leblanc
SET DESIGN: Ariane Sauvé
COSTUME DESIGN: Sébastien Dionne
LIGHTING DESIGN: Keven Dubois
Riccardo Della Sciucca
Alexandra Marcellier
Hugo Laporte
Élisabeth Boudreault
Geoffroy Salvas
Tomislav Lavoie
Robert Huard
