Bizet's

The Pearl Fishers

January 28 & 30, 2011

Mahalia Jackson Theater for the Performing Arts (map)

Set in exotic Celon (now Sri Lanka), this opera by the composer of Carmen boasts one of the most famous and beautiful duets in the repertoire. Two men renew their vows of friendship, even though both have fallen in love with the same woman. In the end, one man will make the ultimate sacrifice for the other.

FEATURING the New Orleans Opera Ballet:

Returning native son Gregory Schramel and wife Marjorie Hardwick, after dancing as Principals and Soloist in Miami City Ballet, Cincinnati Ballet, Atlanta Ballet and Dallas Ballet, established the New Orleans Ballet Theater in December 2002. Their company offers audiences a unique dance experience steeped in the contemporary traditions honed by such luminaries as George Balanchine, Maurice Bejart and Twlyla Tharp. New Orleans Opera welcomes to the stage the contribution of their unique style.

Original Language

French

Composer

Georges Bizet

Librettist

Eugène Cormon and Michel Carŕe

Description

Opera in 3 Acts

Time

Place

Ceylon (sri Lanka)

Premiere Date

September 30, 1863

Premiere Location

Théâtre Lyrique, Paris

Notes

Bizet's most successful opera apart from Carmen, it is notable for its colorful and exotic orchestration, and for its great friendship duet, Au fond du Temple Saint, one of the most famous in all opera.