Opera Club: ‘Samson et Dalila’

All are invited to watch Camille Saint-Saens’ “Samson and Delilah” on Tuesday, May 20, at 1:30 p.m. in the Clubhouse 3 Learning Center. Based on the biblical story depicted in the Book of Judges, this 1877 work by Saint-Saens will be introduced by musically knowledgeable club member Lucy Poropat.

Act 1 portrays the Hebrews in captivity under the rule of the Philistines despite the exorbitant strength of one of their leaders, Samson, who demonstrates his power by easily vanquishing an assailant with the assailant’s own sword. The high priest then recruits a recognized philistine beauty, Delilah, to charm Samson into revealing the source of his strength.

In Act 2, Samson is effectively seduced by Delilah to whom he reveals the secret of his strength—his uncut hair. When he subsequently falls asleep, Delilah cuts his hair and hands him over to the Philistine guards.

In Act 3, Samson is shown blinded and enslaved by his captors. After a Philistine Bacchanale, he prays to his God, regains his power and pulls down the temple pillars, killing both himself and the oppressors.

The production is in French with English subtitles. People are encouraged to wear masks indoors, if desired. No dues or fees are collected. For more information, contact Margaret Gillon at 562-370-3844 or Margaretgi@yahoo.com.

—Sylvan Von Burg