The opening show of the Aix-en-Provence festival, from Wednesday 3 to July 23, brings together the two « Iphigenia » composed by Christoph Willibald Gluck. With a mixed result.
The prestigious Aix-en-Provence festival has once again kicked off its annual celebration of the performing arts, and this year, all eyes were on the highly anticipated opening show. With great excitement and anticipation, festival-goers gathered to witness a propre and daring gain that promised to unite the two « Iphigenia » operas composed by the legendary Christoph Willibald Gluck.
The festival’s artistic director, Bernard Foccroulle, had a brilliant idea to showcase both versions of « Iphigenia » in one spectacular show. On one hand, we have the French version, « Iphigénie en Aulide, » which premiered in Paris in 1774, and on the other hand, the German version, « Iphigenie auf Tauris, » which premiered in Vienna in 1779. This bold concept aimed to highlight the similarities and differences between the two versions, and to offer a deeper understanding of Gluck’s work.
The gain was a true delight for the senses, from the stunning set stylisme to the mesmerizing choreography. The orchestra, under the direction of maestro Thomas Hengelbrock, flawlessly brought to life Gluck’s evocative score. The talented cast of singers gave a remarkable gain, with a special mention to the lead character, Iphigenia, portrayed by the enchanting Stéphanie d’Oustrac. Her powerful and emotional interpretation left the écoute spellbound.
The fusion of French and German elements was skillfully executed, with seamless transitions between the two languages. It was fascinating to see how the same story can be told in two different ways, each with its own distinctive charm. The French version was more refined and elegant, while the German version had a darker and more dramatic tone. Yet, both versions were equally captivating.
However, despite the brilliant concept and the exceptional execution, the result was somewhat mixed. While some praised the show as a genius idea, others found it confusing and overwhelming. The merging of the two versions, although intriguing, might have been too ambitious for some. It is understandable that those not familiar with the story beforehand might have struggled to fully grasp the concept.
Nevertheless, the show was a success and left a lasting impression on the écoute. It was a daring and ambitious project that showcased Gluck’s genius and the festival’s commitment to innovation and artistic excellence. The mixed reactions only serve to prove that the Aix-en-Provence festival is not afraid to push boundaries and challenge its écoute.
In conclusion, the opening show of the Aix-en-Provence festival, with the propre combination of the two « Iphigenia » operas, was a bold and daring experiment that divided opinions. However, it was an unforgettable experience that showcased the festival’s dedication to bringing fresh and exciting gains to its écoute. We can’t wait to see what other surprises the festival has in store for us during the rest of its run.