Rameau Hippolyte et Aricie

Synopsis

Rameau's "Hippolyte et Aricie," performed with esteemed tenor Topi Lehtipuu, is a masterful revival of one of the 18th century’s most pioneering operas. Premiered in 2014, this production breathes new life into Jean-Philippe Rameau's first full-length opera, blending baroque grandeur with intense emotional depth. The storyline draws from classical mythology and explores themes of love, jealousy, and divine intervention, all underscored by Rameau's rich and intricate orchestration. This performance is distinguished by its period-appropriate instrumentation and historically informed musical approach, led by a cast of skilled baroque specialists, showcasing vocal agility and expressive nuance. With its lush harmonies and dramatic storytelling, "Hippolyte et Aricie" remains a compelling exploration of human passion and supernatural powers.

Cast

• 

  Topi Lehtipuu

  Hippolyte

• 

  Anne-Catherine Gillet

  Aricie

• Stéphane Degout

  Thésée

• 

  Sarah Connolly

  Phedre

• Jaël Azzaretti

  L’Amour

• 

  Salomé Haller

  Oenone

Reviews

Critics have generally praised the 2014 production of "Rameau Hippolyte et Aricie" featuring Topi Lehtipuu for its authentic baroque interpretation and musical excellence. On IMDb, the opera scores a high rating among viewers who appreciate the intricate vocal performances and the quality of the orchestration led by early music specialists. Classical music reviewers highlight Lehtipuu's vibrant tenor as a standout, blending power with clarity. The production’s use of period instruments elicited commendations for its historical fidelity, enhancing the immersive experience. However, some reviewers noted that the opera’s dense plot and stylized baroque libretto may challenge modern opera-goers less familiar with the genre, calling the pacing slow for some tastes. Metacritic lacks a formal aggregate score due to the niche nature of this work, but specialized reviews, such as those from "Opera Today" and "Early Music Review," rate the performance highly, stressing the impressive balance between vocal delivery and orchestral textures. Rotten Tomatoes does not list this opera as it falls outside mainstream cinema but viewer feedback consistently praises the production's vibrant energy and deep emotional resonance. Overall, the 2014 "Hippolyte et Aricie" stands as a landmark baroque opera revival, lauded for artistic integrity yet potentially polarizing for casual audiences.

See also

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Red

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