Opera

Philemon and Baucis

Composed by Franz Joseph Haydn
The Colla Marionette Company (Italy)
Emmett Robinson Theatre at College of Charleston

Eszterháza Palace, the Versailles-like residence of the Esterházy family, was home to a magnificent opera theatre presided over by Franz Joseph Haydn, and an equally fine puppet theatre, where Haydn’s Philemon and Baucis premiered in 1773 to welcome Empress Maria Theresa on her historic visit. Written for orchestra and voices in the pit and marionettes on stage, the opera recounts the story of how the gods Jupiter and Mercury reward Philemon and Baucis for their humble generosity. When you see this production, performed by the incomparable Colla Marionette Company with orchestra and soloists, you will understand why it was considered worthy of a royal visit.