Live broadcast of Poulenc’s ‘Dialogues des Carmélites’ set May 18, 20
The Rehoboth Beach Film Society presents the Metropolitan Opera: Live in HD broadcast of Francis Poulenc’s “Dialogues des Carmélites” Saturday, May 18, at 12:30 p.m., and Monday, May 20, at 1 p.m. Screenings are held at the Cinema Art Theater and will be shown as a recorded presentation after being filmed live.
Yannick Nézet-Séguin leads the classic John Dexter production of Poulenc’s devastating story of faith and martyrdom. Mezzo-soprano Isabel Leonard sings the touching role of Blanche, and soprano Karita Mattila, a legend in her own time, returns to the Met as the Prioress.
One of the most successful operas of the later decades of the 20th century, “Dialogues des Carmélites” is a rare case of a modern work that is equally esteemed by audiences and experts. The opera focuses on a young member of an order of Carmelite nuns, the aristocratic Blanche de la Force, who must overcome a pathological timidity in order to answer her life’s calling. The score reflects key aspects of its composer’s personality: Francis Poulenc was an urbane Parisian with a profound mystical dimension, and the opera addresses both the characters’ internal lives and their external realities.
In addition to the opera performance, the Live in HD series features Met opera stars conducting live interviews with cast and/or various production crew members while showing behind-the-scenes workings. This production is the 10th in The Metropolitan Opera: Live in HD series for the 2018-19 season.
Admission for The Met: Live in HD broadcasts is $25 for adults; $22 for RBFS members, Met members, and seniors (65+); $15 for students (with ID) and children (12 and under). Customers are encouraged to purchase tickets online. If seats are available, tickets can be purchased at the theater 30 minutes before the screening.
For more information on this series, other events, or to become a member, go to www.rehobothfilm.com or call 302-645-9095.
