Opera Offstage shines a light on the captivating narratives behind 27 of the world’s most celebrated operas. Drawing on detailed archival research, it explores the real-life events and personalities—from Bizet’s inspiration for Carmen’s fiery heroine to the hostile reception of Puccini’s Madame Butterfly and Strauss’s delicate negotiations with the Nazi regime for Die Schweigsame Frau.
Delving into the complex intersection of art, politics, and society, this volume reveals how librettists found hidden sources for enduring characters, how shifting public tastes influenced revisions, and how composers balanced creative ambition with political pressures. Each chapter presents vivid insights into the human and historical forces shaping these operatic masterpieces.
Inside you'll discover:
- Biographical influences behind iconic characters
- Political and social factors affecting premieres and revivals
- Compromises and collaborations with patrons and regimes
Perfect for music lovers, history enthusiasts, and students of drama, Opera Offstage enriches your appreciation for opera’s human drama and the power struggles behind its greatest works.
