La bohème got a lukewarm reception when it had its premiere in 1896, but its fortunes almost immediately changed. Giacomo Puccini's romantic depiction of bohemian Paris, with memorable music and a love story drawn from everyday life, has captivated audiences round the world, making La bohème one of the best-loved of all operas. It was first performed in Covent Garden in 1897 and has had over 500 performances here since.
John Copley's production recreates Paris in the 1830s, from the lively Latin Quarter, where hawkers and traders ply their wares, to a drafty attic where impoverished artists live. Rodolfo and Mimì's love story is given moving expression through Puccini's score, from their first meeting in Act I to their final, poignant scene together in Act IV. These moments of emotional intensity are contrasted with the colourful spectacle of the Café Momus and surrounding streets, which present a cross-section of Parisian society in all its noise and vibrancy.
Special ticket pricing: $15.00 Regular admission - $12.00 Seniors - $10.00 Students and Princess members. Tickets can be purchased in person at the door only - arrive 30 minutes before showtime. Our next New Opera Season to Launch in November 2014!
Other Royal Opera House screenings:
Giacomo Puccini's TURANDOT - January 26
Giacomo Puccini's TOSCA - February 23
Giuseppe Verdi's LES VEPRES SICILIENNES - March 30
Georges Bizet's CARMEN - April 27
Richard Wagner's PARISFAL - May 25
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart's DON GIOVANNI - July 27
Giuseppe Verdi's NABUCCO - August 24
Christopher Wheeldon's LA TRAVIATA - September 28
Giacomo Puccini's MANON LESCAUT - October 26