FREE Talk: How Dance Revolutionised French Opera by Dr Lola Salem at Oriel College

Name: FREE Talk: How Dance Revolutionised French Opera by Dr Lola Salem at Oriel College
Start: 2024-12-05T19:00:00+00:00
End: 2024-12-05T20:00:00+00:00
Location: Oriel College, University of Oxford

Schedule

Thu Dec 05 2024 at 07:00 pm to 08:00 pm

UTC+00:00

Location

Oriel College, University of Oxford | Oxford, EN

The world of French Baroque opera is a mesmerising blend of music, drama, and dance, where the boundaries between these art forms blur to create a spectacle of unparalleled richness. In this presentation, we will journey through the 17th and 18th centuries to explore how dance not only enhanced the visual and emotional experience of opera but also played a pivotal role in shaping its very structure and evolution.
From the grand spectacles of Jean-Baptiste Lully to the innovative experiments of his successors, dance was more than mere embellishment; it was integral to the storytelling, providing insight into character, mood, and the social hierarchy of the time. We’ll delve into how the ballet sequences, or divertissements, were carefully crafted to reflect the shifting dynamics of French society and the evolving tastes of the opera-going public.
Through vivid examples and historical anecdotes, we’ll examine how the interplay between tragedy, comedy, and dance created a unique theatrical language that continues to inspire modern interpretations. The rise of star dancers and the increasing importance of dance within operatic structures will be key points of discussion, highlighting how this art form captivated audiences and contributed to the enduring legacy of French Baroque opera.
Time: 7-8:00pm
Cost: Donation to our speaker
Location: Oriel College, Oxford University, Oriel Square, Oxford, OX1 4EW
No under 18s