Royal Opera of Versailles
4 avenue de Paris, 78000 Versailles
Capacity 750 seats
La Finta Pazza
Royal Opera of Versailles
Until June 13, 2021
Other languages with surtitles
Location
Duration
3 hours 30 minutes
With intermission
Details
Opera
Recommended for all ages
In Italian with French surtitles
Highlights: La Finta Pazza
Composed by Sacrati, La Finta Pazza was the first opera performed in France, at the court of the young Louis XIV in 1645. Thanks to the conductor Leonardo García Alarcón and the director Jean-Yves Ruf, this work was staged at the Dijon Opera, in 2019, where it made a triumph. La Finta Pazza was nominated for the 2020 International Opera Awards in the "rediscovery of a work" category.
La Finta Pazza is a story of love during the war which follows the fate of Achilles. This opera is performed by the 15 musicians of the Cappella Mediterranea and by 20 incredible singers such as Mariana Flores, Carlo Vistoli, Filippo Mineccia and Julie Roset.
To make your experience an unforgettable one, you will be able to choose from a selection of unique add-ons upon booking, such as a glass of champagne and an exclusive programme. See below for more details.
Story: La Finta Pazza
In fear of the Trojan War, Achilles' mother tries to save her son from the certain death that awaits him in battle. She hides Achilles on the Isle of Scyros where Achilles fell in love with Deidama, the daughter of King Lycomedes. The secret relationships between Achilles and Deidama result in the birth of a boy whose existence is also kept in secret. The heroes Ulysses and Diomedes travel to the island in search of Achilles, without whom they cannot achieve victory over the Trojans. But when Achilles agrees to join the fight, Deidama decides to play insanity to keep Achilles on the island and gain recognition from her father for their union and their son.
Director Jean-Yves Ruf offers a nuanced and intimate setting where the use of colors and veils highlights the richness of Sacrati's score.
Premium Options & Experiences
Looking for more than a standard ticket to the show? To make your experience an unforgettable one, you will be able to choose one of the following upgraded offers at the time of booking:
Champagne + Programme + Show
This offer includes a glass of champagne and a printed programme, as well as exclusive access to the best two seating categories.
Reviews
Royal Opera of Versailles
4 avenue de Paris, 78000 Versailles
The Royal Opera of Versailles
Categorized as one of the largest performance halls in Europe during its inauguration in 1770 requested by Louis XV, it is presently still admired as one of the grand luxurious stages in Paris due to its lavishing décor composed of early-century design. The ceiling above the room comprises an exquisite form of art, something similar to what you would see in the Sistine Chapel in Rome.
Opéra Royal was no ordinary room, it was prestigious among wealthy individuals who fancied theater. Hosting 1,500 people, only a specific number of guests were invited to view the best shows in Paris at the esteemed Versailles palace. Later the room was also used as a ballroom and a banquet hall.
After the revolution the Opéra Royal room was left whole but stripped of its 18th-century embellishment. Altering its original appearance, the room is renovated for official shows such as the opening of the Versailles museum in 1837. Renovated and inaugurated once again in 1957 after the Second World War by orders of architect André Japy, the room undertook a whole new look. In 2009 Opéra Royal opened its doors to spectators from all over the world and began to display an array of enlightened shows such as contemporary dance, ballet recitals, opera, and classical music concerts. Presently it offers more than 100 performances per season in its golden room occupied with ostentatious chandeliers, surrounded by red velvet seating.
Fast facts:
Capacity: 750
Handicap Accessible: Yes
Air conditioning: No
Heating: Yes
FAQ
How do I get to the Royal Opera of Versailles?
You may access the Royal Opera of Versailles by RER C at Versailles Château Rive Gauche station, by using lines N and U of the Transilien at Versailles Chantiers station and also by line L at Versailles Rive Droite station.
The Opera is also accessible by bus line 171.
The Royal Opera is located on the grounds of the Castle. Access is via Door B (on the right in the Cour d'honneur, near the Royal Chapel).
For more information, please see the map above.
In case of any difficulty, you may contact our customer service from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday to Friday.
What should I do when I arrive at Royal Opera of Versailles?
We recommend that you arrive at least 20 minutes before the start of the show. Show your ticket at reception and the staff will take care of you.
Is there a dress code?
There is no specific dress code, however, proper clothing is required. For the gala evenings, we suggest men to wear a suit and ladies to wear a dress.
Can I take pictures during the performance?
In order not to disturb the artists and for the comfort of other spectators, it is forbidden to take pictures during the performance. However, you can take photos of the Théâtre des Champs-Elysées before and after the performance, as a souvenir of your gorgeous Parisian evening!
Is it mandatory to tip an usher?
Each spectator is greeted in the hall by an usher who will lead them to the seat. According to custom at the Opéra Royal of Versailles, ushers may request a tip which you may grant if you wish. It is by no means mandatory.