Dallas Opera - Dialogues of the Carmelites
Frances Poulenc's portrait of the French Revolution
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a serious, big, theatrically effective work
Classics Today
Frances Poulenc's portrait of the French Revolution
Frances Poulenc's portrait of the French Revolution
As the French Revolution rages outside, the devout nuns of the Carmelite order are ensconced within their convent, but as the Reign of Terror approaches, their faith in God, themselves, and each other is tested to extremes with every slice of the Guillotine. Based on a true story, Frances Poulenc's haunting adaptation of Georges Bernanos' work offers up a devastating portrait of the era, and the voices of those claimed by history's bloodiest revolution. Directing this revival is Daniel Izzo, while Emmanuelle Villaume conducts a cast including Joyce El-Khoury as Sister Blanche, Stephanie D'Oustrac as Mother Marie, Leah Hawkins as Mme. Lidoine and Patricia Racette as Mme. De Croissy.
Daughter of an aristocrat, Blanche de la Force takes refuge in a Carmelite convent, believing it a safe place to hide from the encroaching violence. But her sanctuary is not immune to the wave of change that is sweeping the country and soon there are calls for the sisters to renounce their devotion. With the mob at the door, Blanche and her newfound community are faced with a life of death choice.