Royal Opera of Versailles
4 avenue de Paris, 78000 Versailles
Capacity 750 seats
Orpheus and Eurydice
Royal Opera of Versailles
Until March 7, 2021
100% in French
Location
Duration
1 hour 40 minutes
Without intermissions
Details
Opera
For all ages
In French
Highlights: Orpheus and Eurydice
The myth of Orpheus and Eurydice has inspired numerous musical works all over the world. However, Gluck's opera is surely one of the most beautiful! The work marks a revolution in the world of opera through the power of its emotions and the depth of its melodies. Over the years, this work has undergone numerous modifications, and it is to Hector Berlioz that we owe the reconstruction and adaptation of the score for a woman's voice.
To make your experience unforgettable, you can choose from a selection of unique complementary offers and options at the time of your reservation, such as a glass of champagne and a program. See below for more information.
Story: Orpheus and Eurydice
Orpheus, overwhelmed by the death of his wife Eurydice, sings of his despair. His song deeply touches the Gods who send their messenger, Love, to announce to Orpheus that he is authorized to descend to Hell and rescue his wife. He will be able to bring Eurydice back to the world of the living by charming the Furies with his music. However, Orpheus must respect one condition: he must not turn around to look at his wife on the way home. But would Orpheus be able to resist?
Aurélien Bory imagines a staging and impressive sets which, thanks to mirrors, transport sublime arias such as "I lost my Eurydice" and "Love, come and give back to my soul" in a dreamlike and poetic universe. Here, Marianne Crebassa and Hélène Guilmette will play opera with mezzo-soprano Lea Desandre in the role of Love. They will be alongside dancers, circus artists, the Pygmalion choirs and orchestra, under the musical direction of Raphaël Pichon.
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 a 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.