Tragic Heroines of The Palais Garnier from 1875 to 1939
12th September 2011 Opera divas are powerful goddesses, and intricately linked to opera history. The exhibition Tragédiennes de L’Opéra traces some of the singers from 1875 to 1939, who left a lasting impression on opera and Palais Garnier. Founded by King Louis XIV, the stunning structure that stands today was initiated by Emperor Napoleon III during the Second Empire. Austrian diva Gabrielle Krauss performed at the gala Opera opening in 1875. Other singers who form part of the musical history include Rose Caron, Lina Cavaliera (shown above in THAÏS by Jules Massenent in 1907 – photo: BmO, GF 163) Lucienne Bréval who entranced opera goers at Garnier for 30 years, and Mary Garden who shocked audiences with her scandalous Salomé. Through an intriguing collection of costume sketches, photographs, objects from the original productions, jewellery and paintings, plus rare documents, the exhibition illustrates how opera is enriched by its divas. Until 25th Septembre. www.operadeparis.fr JG
