Opera Club
Residents are invited to come and watch Bizet’s “The Pearl Fishers” on Tuesday, Nov. 15 at 1:30 p.m. in the Learning Center of Clubhouse 3.
Joyce Bachner will introduce this opera, which is perfectly suited for first-time opera goers as it contains the melodies and drama that have marked Georges Bizet’s musical work for over 150 years. The story focuses on the love of two men for the same woman and the psychological strength required on the part of one to reach a peaceable resolution.
Act 1 introduces a village in Ceylon where folks are engaged in pearl fishing and have just chosen a leader, Zurga. Among the well-wishers is a young pearlfisher, Nadir, who years earlier had sworn a vow of eternal friendship with Zurga when both men had fallen in love with the same girl, but swore to give up their pursuit to maintain their friendship. Into this village also comes a religious figure, a virginal priestess Leila. By custom, she wears a face covering common to many religious figures but somehow she is recognized by Nadir as his former object of affection.
Act 2 reveals Nadir caught up in his strong attraction to Laila and he pursues her causing alarm to the Brahman religious beliefs of the people and they demand that both transgressors be put to death for their transgression. Their leader Zurga realizes his good friend Nadir has broken their joint vow.
Act 3 presents Zurga coping with this heavy dilemma—facing his own feelings for Laila and the broken vow of Nadir. As Laila comes in to plead for the life of Nadir by sacrificing her own life, he fights with his available options. He ultimately forgives them and sends them off to pursue a life elsewhere, having distracted the townspeople with a fire to which they flee to protect their homes and families.
The production is in French with English subtitles. People are encouraged to wear masks if desired. No dues or fees are collected. For more information contact Opera Club President Beverly Emus by calling 562296-5598 or by email at Beverly90740@ gmail.com.
