Opera Club: Offenbach’s ‘Hoffmann’

All are welcome to watch a free screening of “Les Contes d’Hoffmann/The Tales of Hoffman” on Tuesday, Jan. 21, at 1:30 p.m. in the Learning Center of Clubhouse 3.

Opera Club member Sylvan Von Burg will introduce these three romantic tales about the self-confessed trials of a love-sick poet, Hoffmann, accompanied by the incredible romantic music of Jacques Offenbach, its French composer.

In the prologue, the poet begins to write his three tales while unable to acknowledge his attraction to Stella, who is present. However, in Act 1 he reveals his idealistic attraction to Olympia, a beautiful mechanical doll that falls apart when pursued by him.

In Act 2, we find him falling in love with Antonia, a gifted singer who is cautioned against singing to safeguard her health, but who nevertheless follows her muse to her demise.

In Act 3, he dedicates himself to Giulietta, a Venetian courtesan who steals his attention to attract a lesser man. In the epilogue the poet admits his loves were illusions. By renouncing love he devotes himself to his poetry.

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 562370-3844 or email Margaretgi@yahoo.com. —Sylvan Von Burg