"AntoÃÚn DvoÅÃk's next to last opera draws its substance from the underwater wonderland of little mermaids, Undines and Melusines: Rusalka, a water nymph, wishes to become human in order to be loved by the young prince. Despite being warned against it, she asks the witch JeÅibaba to help her. In order for her wish to be fulfilled, Rusalka must give up her voice and face eternal damnation if her love fails. Jaroslav Kvapil's libretto inspired DvoÅÃk to compose a masterpiece, a compelling opera full of poignant lyricism and dramatic twists. ÃdÃm Fisher and Stefan Herheim masterfully present this "lyrical fairytale' at La Monnaire. In this widely acclaimed interpretation, the fairytale elements assume frighteningly realistic dimensions making this enchanting proudction a psychoanalytical study of male fantasies and female archetypes."--Container.

Program notes in English, German and French (26 p) inserted in container. Includes behind-the-scenes introduction (10 min.).