On 9 December 2020, highlights from Samson et Dalila (Samson and Delilah), one of the most popular French operas to this day were streamed from 8:00 p.m. on Facebook and Origo.hu.
Nearly 150 years after its world premiere, this biblically themed work flowing with sensuality that the Scriptures would in all certainty condemn still has a special magic. And the subject does indeed come from the Scriptures: using the Book of Judges from the Old Testament as his source, Ferdinand Lemaire wrote a stage play about Delilah’s seduction of Samson, conducted with the sole purpose of learning the secret of his strength. Composer Camille Saint-Saëns brought to life monumental oratorio-like frescos with shadings of Gounod and Meyerbeer, along with further hues, in certain places, of nearly Wagnerian sensuality to depict Delilah’s wild enticements. Coming to life in scenes of surging force is an irresistible mixture of religion and seduction.
The highlights presented in a concert version were staged by András Aczél. The title roles were performed by Erika Gál and Attila Fekete, further roles were sung by Alexandru Agache, Donát Varga, András Kiss, Gergely Biri and Géza Gábor. Featuring on the piano was Katalin Doman, the performance was narrated by Dániel Mona.
The performance can be viewed HERE.
Photo by Edina Ligeti