Royal Opera House
Faust
Thursday, June 20th at 2:00 PM
$11 Members | $16 Public
Experience the decadence and elegance of 1870s Paris in David Mcvicar’s spectacular production of Gounod’s best-loved opera about the aged philosopher, Faust, who calls upon Satan for his help in attaining the love of the beautiful Marguerite.
There are many versions of the story of Faust, who trades his soul with the Devil for youth and power, but Gounod’s opera remains one of the most constantly enthralling. Michael Fabiano stars as Faust, with Diana Damrau as his beloved Marguerite and Erwin Schrott as the diabolical Méphistophélès. Virtuoso leading roles, a large chorus, sensational sets, ballet and an ecstatic finale make this the epitome of theatrical spectacle – the lavish scale of French grand opera is wonderfully in evidence in this production by David McVicar, set in 1870s Paris. Above all, the music features several of popular opera’s most recognizable numbers, highlights of which include Méphistophélès's demonic aria 'Le veau d'or', Marguerite's dazzling coloratura Jewel Song, the Act IV Soldiers' Chorus and Act V's impassioned trio as Marguerite struggles to achieve salvation. Approximate running time: 3 hours 45 minutes, including one interval | French with English surtitles