The libretto, signed by Cardinal Rospigliosi, later Pope Clement IX, is the first adaptation of Ariosto’s Roland furieux, a masterpiece of Italian poetry that would go on to inspire a long legacy of operatic works. Thus, in this enchanted labyrinthine palace, where the mage Atlante traps and sends into delirium the elite of chivalry and gallantry, we encounter the most inventive and dazzling outpourings of laments, arias, and ensembles to emerge from a brief Roman spring. A true grand spectacle opera, with an opulent orchestra and star castrati, the opera experienced considerable success, reflecting well on its patrons’ glory. Leonardo García Alarcón, an indefatigable explorer of forgotten repertoires, leads us into this vibrant work, brought to life by Fabrice Murgia’s skillful staging, which uses “the enchantment” of modern imagery to multiply the facets of this operatic puzzle. Actors, acrobats, dancers, and singers are swept into the magical palace, lost in fear and love, until they lose themselves entirely in sublime and festive music—the central point of this lyrical resurrection.

Coproduction Opéra Royal / Château de Versailles Spectacles, Opéra de Dijon, Opéra national de Lorraine

In partnership with the Chœur de chambre de Namur

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