Rusalka - THE MET: Live in HD

The only one of Dvorak’s operas to gain an international following (so far), Rusalka is in many ways a definitive example of late Romanticism. Containing folklore, evocations of the natural and the supernatural worlds, and even a poignant interpretation of the idea of a love-death. Dvorak juxtaposes the mortal and the mythical with beautiful folk melodies and luminous arias.

The story has a strong national flavor as well as universal appeal, infused by the Romantic supernaturalism of Friedrich de la Motte Fouqué’s novella Undine (previously set as an opera by E.T.A. Hoffmann, Tchaikovsky, and others) and Hans Christian Andersen’s The Little Mermaid.

SETTINGS

The opera takes place in an unspecified fairy-tale setting. Contrasting unspoiled and “honest” nature (the woods and lake of the framing acts) with corrupt human culture (the Prince’s palace in Act II) was a favorite theme of Romantic artists.

SONG TO THE MOON: THE STORY OF RUSALKA

In the depths of a lively lake, Rusalka, water nymph and daughter of the ruling water sprite, bemoans her fate. Her eye has been caught by a dashing prince, but being a nymph she cannot have him. Going against the wishes of her father, she consults with the witch Jezibaba, who teaches her a spell to become mortal. The only caveat; she will be mute and, therefore unable to express her love. If the Prince betrays her, they'll both be damned for eternity. Of course, she takes her chances, which throw her into an adventure of jealousy, exile, love and redemption that will change her forever more.

THE CAST

Kristine Opolais stars in the role that helped launch her international career, the mythical Rusalka, who sings the haunting “Song to the Moon.” Mary Zimmerman brings her wondrous theatrical imagination to Dvořák’s fairytale of love and longing, rejection and redemption. Brandon Jovanovich, Jamie Barton, Katarina Dalayman, and Eric Owens complete the all-star cast, and Mark Elder conducts.

Running time 220 minutes

With Greek and English subtitles 

Media Sponsor: Politis News Paper

With the support of ANT1

Tickets: € 18 / 13

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