Bite Sized Opera

Let Springboard Opera introduce you to Massenet's opera, Thaïs. A world of clashing ideals and the attraction of opposites, all underscored by music that suggests dreams, meditations and swirling atmospheres. This one-hour retelling will be accompanied by a two-course meal from the chefs at Fairplay Kitchen. The perfect way to spend a long Sunday lunch as you "meditate" on the brilliant performances of the singers.

Synopsis:
Athanaël, a Cenobite monk, decides to save the city of Alexandria from the corruption and sin that are symbolised by the scandalous behaviour of a courtesan, Thaïs. He sets out to convert her to Christianity, rebuffing her attempts to seduce him and speaking of a spiritual love rather than a physical one.

Whilst initially mocking towards Athanaël, Thaïs meditates on the vanity of her life and decides to follow him to make amends. When Thaïs, now converted, enters the holy order, Athanaël understands too late that he burns with passion for the former courtesan. There is no time left to hear the words of love for the woman who is dying, sanctified, under the eyes of Athanaël, who is overcome with pain.

This retelling unites the perspectives of both Thaïs and Athanaël, in an intimate yet dramatic staging. The theological and emotional tensions play beautifully on this smaller scale, accompanied by Massenet's famous music (especially Méditation).