Offenbach: La vie parisienne

Jacques Offenbach's "La vie parisienne" is a delightful operetta that captures the essence of Parisian life in the 19th century. This complete recording, restored by the Palazzetto Bru Zane, presents the original five-act version of the opera-bouffe, offering a comprehensive and authentic listening experience. Composed by the renowned Jacques Offenbach, with a libretto by Henri Meilhac and Ludovic Halévy, this operetta is a masterful blend of wit, charm, and vibrant music.

The story revolves around a young man's elaborate scheme to seduce a visiting Danish baroness, involving a cast of characters who pose as aristocrats and tradesfolk. The operetta is filled with humor, intricate plots, and memorable melodies that showcase Offenbach's genius for creating lively and engaging music.

This recording features a stellar cast of singers, including Anne-Catherine Gillet as Gabrielle, bringing the characters to life with their exceptional vocal talents. The music is performed by the Stadium Symphony Orchestra under the direction of Raymond Paige, delivering a rich and dynamic sound that highlights the intricacies of Offenbach's score.

"La vie parisienne" is a celebration of Parisian culture and society, filled with witty dialogue, charming arias, and lively ensembles. The operetta's themes of love, deception, and social satire are as relevant today as they were in the 19th century, making it a timeless piece of musical theater.

With a duration of 1 hour and 40 minutes, this album offers a complete and immersive experience of Offenbach's operetta. Released on September 15, 2023, by Warner Classics, "La vie parisienne" is a must-listen for fans of operetta, classical music, and those who appreciate the rich cultural heritage of Paris.