Courtesy of Portland Opera
Why is the opera La bohème still so culturally relevant to modern audiences? While the Bohemian lifestyle of Paris in the 1830’s was the spark for the opera by Puccini, the cultural influence of that earlier movement continues until the present in more modern forms like Boho (short for Bohemian).
Why is this opera one of the top 5 most popular operas per recent operabase statistics? Puccini’s dazzling opera La bohème exposes the trials and tribulations of Rodolfo and his cadre of friends who get by on meager food, comradery, wine, and the hope of a brighter future. When the lovely Mimi enters this bon vivant atmosphere, the lives of the young men are upturned; when Mimi falls gravely ill, the joie de vivre is replaced with a deep sadness that permeates the group. The music follows right along with the drama onstage. The contrast between the upbeat Act 2 chorus and the poignant aria Addio di Mimi ( Donde lieta uscì), where her exit from this life is foreshadowed, highlights the range of emotions so expertly translated to music by Puccini. It helps the audience connect in a very real way to the lives of the characters on stage.
Portland Opera’s Spring 2017 production played out on a stage decorated with magnificent sets by the Italian designer Ercole Sormani that were brought to life by the dazzling lighting effects by York Kennedy. The production featured several debut artists including Vanessa Isiguen as Mimi, and former Portland Opera Resident Artist Jennifer Forni as Musetta. Certainly, a highlight of this production was the American debut of the young Italian tenor Giordano Lucà as Rodolfo. His stage presence and pure, controlled voice gave dimension to the central character Rodolfo. Read interview.
La bohème always presents the opportunity to live vicariously through the group of bohemians onstage. It is an excellent choice for those who are new to opera, especially those who relate to the modern bohemian lifestyle. In the question and answer session on opening night with General Director Christopher Mattaliano, several audience members volunteered that it was the first time that they had seen this popular opera. Mr. Mattaliano commented, “we have to make sure every production of classics like La bohème are fresh and alive, knowing there will always be newcomers”