Samson at the Opéra Comique: a new operatic work inspired by Rameau and Voltaire

Published by Philippine de Sortiraparis · Photos by Cécile de Sortiraparis · Updated on February 28, 2025 at 10:02 a.m.
A fascinating opera between music and tragedy, from March 17 to 23 at the Opéra Comique.

The story of Samson, the biblical hero of legendary strength and tragic destiny, almost became an opera under the pen of Voltaire and the music of Jean-Philippe Rameau. But in 1734, the royal censors objected to the staging of a story drawn from the Scriptures, forcing Rameau to abandon his project. Today, this work takes on a new form under the impetus of director Claus Guth and conductor Raphaël Pichon, who propose a free creation based on the lost libretto and the composer's music.

Le Lac des Cygnes de l'Opéra diffusé pour la première fois au cinéma dans le monde entierLe Lac des Cygnes de l'Opéra diffusé pour la première fois au cinéma dans le monde entierLe Lac des Cygnes de l'Opéra diffusé pour la première fois au cinéma dans le monde entierLe Lac des Cygnes de l'Opéra diffusé pour la première fois au cinéma dans le monde entier Not-to-be-missed operas and ballets in Paris and the Ile-de-France region
Looking for a show? This article lists the must-see operas and ballets of the 2024-2025 season in Paris and Île-de-France! [Read more]

This new version of Samson follows the life of the biblical hero, from his birth announced by an angel to his destiny as liberator and judge. Marked by a fatal passion for Dalila, Samson embodies the duality between strength and blindness, love and fate. Through an original musical montage, the opera restores the spirit of the tragedy imagined by Voltaire, combining dramatic power and musical intensity.

Nos critiques des pièces de théâtre et spectacles du moment à Paris et en Ile de FranceNos critiques des pièces de théâtre et spectacles du moment à Paris et en Ile de FranceNos critiques des pièces de théâtre et spectacles du moment à Paris et en Ile de FranceNos critiques des pièces de théâtre et spectacles du moment à Paris et en Ile de France Our reviews of shows and plays to discover in Paris
Fancy going to see a play or show in Paris or the Ile-de-France region, but don't know which one to choose? Our reviews of current plays and shows are here to advise you! [Read more]

This show will appeal to lovers ofBaroque opera, those with a passion for bold lyrical creations and those who wish to discover an original musical project, rooted in history yet resolutely modern.

From March 17 to 23, 2025, Samson takes over the Opéra Comique with a striking retelling of the biblical myth. A work where Rameau 's music, Voltaire 's text and a contemporary vision come together for a total, never-before-seen spectacle.

This article is based on information available about the show and does not constitute a viewing review.

Practical information

Dates and Opening Time
From March 17, 2025 to March 23, 2025

× Approximate opening times: to confirm opening times, please contact the establishment.

    Location

    1 place Boieldieu
    75002 Paris 2

    Route planner

    Booking
    www.opera-comique.com

    Comments
    Refine your search
    Refine your search
    Refine your search
    Refine your search