Opera

Monte-carlo Opera

Russian discoveries

During the Opera’s first seasons, an aristocratic clientele, notably from Saint-Petersburg flocked to Monte-Carlo to hear the great divas of the time. In 1892, Prince Albert I appointed Raoul Gunsbourg as the head of the Opera on the recommendation of Tsar Alexander III. Using this relationship, Gunsbourg sent for dancers from the Imperial Ballet then Serge de Diaghilev’s Ballets Russes which triumphed from 1911. Through his personality and charm, Raoul Gunsbourg attracted the greatest artists, such as Fiodor Chaliapine who marked the Opera’s history with his influence. A spellbinding actor and unremitting perfectionist, along with Diaghilev, Chaliapine symbolised the great Russian tradition of the Monegasque stage.

The Russian Discoveries evening will revive a concert responsible for revealing Russia’s cultural riches to the West. During this concert some rare passages will be revived under the musical direction of the young and talented Dmitri Jurowski. In order to honour these works with their subtle nuances, Jean-Louis Grinda has called upon the voices of tomorrow. A unique opportunity to hear once again this fascinating repertoire, the discovery of which almost a century ago, made high society and western music lovers tremble with pleasure.

The Choir of the Monte-Carlo Opera will participate throughout the celebrations for the Centenary in many performances alongside the Ballets de Monte-Carlo and the Monte-Carlo Philharmonic Orchestra.