Samson et Delila

The biblical story of the Hebrew leader Samson has become famous mostly because of the images of him falling prey to the seductress Delilah, who cuts off his hair to rob him of his strength. Through prayer he recaptures enough strength to cause the collapse of the Philistine temple. Saint-Saëns (who originally thought of composing an oratorio rather than an opera) portrays this story with gorgeous arias for the heroine and the famous Bacchanale. Since 1877 the opera has become a favourite vehicle for many of the most famous tenors and mezzos.

Composer: Camille Saint-Saëns
Librettist: Ferdinand Lemaire

Schedule

Friday, February 10, 2006 at 8:00 pm
Tuesday, February 14, 2006 at 8:00 pm
Friday, February 17, 2006 at 8:00 pm
Wednesday, February 22, 2006 at 8:00 pm
Saturday, February 25, 2006 at 1:30 pm
Thursday, March 2, 2006 at 8:00 pm