Manon Lescaut

04/06/12 • 42 min

The "material girl" at the heart of Abbé Prévost's novella, Manon Lescaut, is one of literature's most charming yet enigmatic heroines. She has inspired no less than 4 operas, 2 ballets, films and more - including Giacomo Puccini's first major success.
In Tune with the Opera Company of Philadelphia, hosted by Michael Bolton and Maren Montalbano, takes a look at Puccini's lush romantic score in preparation for OCP's April 2012 production of the opera.
These performances at the Academy of Music mark the first professional Philadelphia performances of the opera in 25 years and stars 2011 Metropolitan Opera National Council Audition Winner Michelle Johnson, Thiago Arancam, Troy Cook and Daniel Mobbs.
Musical excerpts on the podcast are provided by Allegro Music Group on the Opera d'Oro label, catalogue number 1428. This complete recording can be purchased online at http://www.allegro-music.com/online_catalog.asp?sku_tag=OPD31428.

Previous Episode

Elegy for Young Lovers

For those who find themselves in the company of poet Gregor Mittenhofer, the results may be as dramatic as the deadly snowstorm that swirls around the mountain inn where they find themselves. Hans Werner Henze, considered to be one of the foremost composers of our time, brings us this powerful and acclaimed opera.
Listen to In Tune with the Opera Company of Philadelphia to find out more this upcoming production, part of OCP's Aurora Series for Chamber Opera at the Perelman Theater. A Philadelphia-area Henze enthusiast takes us through this 1961 masterpiece, reviews the genesis of the opera, and provides a musical guide. This podcast is hosted by OCP's Michael Bolton.
These performances mark the Philadelphia Premiere of the work, which has not been performed in the U.S. for nearly 20 years. Elegy for Young Lovers is produced in association with the Opera Company of Philadelphia, Curtis Opera Theatre, and Kimmel Center Presents.

Next Episode

Silent Night: An Interview with Troy Cook

For this edition of In Tune, co-hosts Michael Bolton and Maren Montalbano interview one of Philadelphia’s favorite baritones, Troy Cook, who stars in the February production of Kevin Puts and Mark Campbell’s Pulitzer Prize winning opera, Silent Night. Mr. Cook talks about his role in the opera as Father Palmer, a role he created at the world premiere of the opera and reprises in Philadelphia, and this fascinating and beautiful new work.