Opera
Paul Dukas
Ariane et Barbe-Bleue
26 Jan, 26 - 20 Feb, 26
Pinchas Steinberg
Àlex Ollé (La Fura dels Baus)
Chorus and Orchestra of Teatro Real
After a 113-year wait, the Teatro Real presents Ariane et Barbe-Bleue, by Paul Dukas based on the famous story by Charles Perrault, with Àlex Ollé as stage director. This captivating production challenges perceptions of freedom and individual will, featuring the talent of mezzosoprano Paula Murrihy in the leading role.
Tale in three acts
Music by Paul Dukas (1865-1935)
Libretto by Maurice Maeterlinck, after Charles Perrault’s play La Barbe bleu (1697)
Premiered at Opéra-Comique (Paris) on 10 May 1907, and at Teatro Real on 15 February 1913
Produced by Teatro Real, in co-production with Opéra national de Lyon
Artistic team
Conductor: Pinchas Steinberg
Director: Àlex Ollé
Set design: Alfons Flores
Costume design: Josep Abril Janer
Lighting design: Urs Schönebaum
Chorus director: José Luis Basso
Cast
Barbazul: Gianluca Buratto
Ariane: Paula Murrihy
The nurse: Silvia Tro Santafé
Sélysette: Aude Extrémo
Ygraine: Jaquelina Livieri
Mélisande: Maria Miró
Bellangère: Renée Rapier
An Old Peasant: Luis López Navarro
Orchestra and Chorus of the Teatro Real
Synopsis and more information
Ariane, a strong, independent woman, becomes Bluebeard's sixth wife and, on arriving at his castle, finds his five previous wives kidnapped there. Instead of following her path of liberation, they are unable to start a new life and prefer to remain subservient. Despite her efforts, Ariane realises she cannot impose her worldview on those who do not wish to change their destiny. In the end, it is she who abandons the castle, leaving behind a world of shadows that appears doomed to repeat itself.
Releases
Protective Friend
13 October
2025Supporter and Benefactor Friend
14 October
2025Patron friends
15 October
2025Subscribers friend
16 October
2025Tickets on sale
17 October
2025Performances
- Date/hour
- Space
- Cast
- Subscription ticket
26 January 2026
19:30
Main Auditorium
31 January 2026
19:30
Main Auditorium
05 February 2026
19:30
Main Auditorium
11 February 2026
19:30
Main Auditorium
15 February 2026
18:00
Main Auditorium
20 February 2026
19:30
Main Auditorium
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