From June 20 to July 1, 2025, Francis Poulenc’s masterwork Dialogues des Carmélites returns to the stage of La Fenice Opera House in a new production by Fondazione Teatro La Fenice, in co-production with Fondazione Teatro dell’Opera di Roma.
A profound meditation on faith, fear, and sacrifice, Dialogues des Carmélites tells the tragic true story of sixteen Carmelite nuns who chose martyrdom during the French Revolution rather than renounce their vows. Poulenc’s music, deeply intertwined with the rhythm and nuance of Georges Bernanos’ original play, brings this harrowing narrative to life with moving intimacy and dramatic depth.
Rejecting the traditional operatic libretto, Poulenc allows the literary text to shine, echoing the stylistic integrity of Monteverdi, Debussy, Verdi, and Musorgsky—his artistic models. The result is an opera where word and music hold equal power, enriched by the expressive weight of mélodie française.
The production is conducted by Frédéric Chaslin, with direction by Emma Dante, and features a distinguished cast including Julie Cherrier-Hoffmann as Blanche, Anna Caterina Antonacci as Madame de Croissy, Vanessa Goikoetxea as Madame Lidoine, and Juan Francisco Gatell as the Chevalier de La Force. The Orchestra and Choir of Teatro La Fenice, prepared by Alfonso Caiani, bring Poulenc’s luminous and tragic score to life.
A poignant and spiritual journey into the depths of human conviction, Dialogues des Carmélites promises a truly unforgettable evening at La Fenice.
Website: www.teatrolafenice.it
Location: La Fenice Opera House, Venice
Schedule: June 20 – July 1, 2025
