LW Opera: Puccini’s ‘La Boheme’

All are invited to a free screening of “La Boheme,” Giacomo Puccini’s romantic opera of young love, friendship and loyalty set in Paris of 1890, on Tuesday, June 16, at 1:30 p.m. in the Clubhouse 3 Learning Center. Knowledgeable club member Lucy Poropat will introduce the struggling young men and women who sought to start their artistic careers in an attractive urban environment by applying their skills in poetry, painting, singing, music and philosophy.

Act 1 depicts four young men in a freezing attic apartment—the best they could afford—showing their knowledge, humor, ability to get along with one another and their agreement to depart for a drink and relax at the sidewalk Cafe Momus. Only the poet Rodolfo begs to join them a few minutes later, wanting to first finish his work, when he hears a knock on his door from his attractive next door neighbor Mimi, asking for a light for her candle. They introduce themselves and find themselves falling in love while searching for a dropped key.

Act 2 is the evening scene at Cafe Momus with the young set exhibiting high energy. The painter Marcello discovers a former girlfriend, Musetta, in the company of a wealthy escort. Musetta then launches into a sprightly waltz to gain the crowd’s attention, after which they all depart, sticking the bill for their drinks with the wealthy escort.

Act 3 shows Mimi searching for the absent Rodolpho who says he still loves her, but fears she will die if she remains in poverty with him. They renew their statements of love but agree to separate in the spring.

Act 4 finds Rodolfo and Marcello unsuccessfully trying to forget their lost loves. Musetta arrives to convey that Mimi wants to die in the company of the man she loves. The friends sacrifice their possessions to buy medicine and to make her comfortable. The story ends with Rodolfo desperately shouting Mimi’s name.

The production is in Italian with English subtitles. People are encouraged to wear masks 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