The Opera, La Bohem

The setting is essentially that of a stage within a stage. That it, a 360o revolving stage was set upon the main stage area, with the orchestra pit in the front part (refer to Appendix 1 for graphical representation). Minimalism was also reflected in that the onstage furnishing was reduced from that prescribed by the authentic opera. A bathtub was used in place of a table, an armchair for a bed, etc. These allowed more mobility duri

Act 4. Again, we see the classic Puccini—achieving unity by using the same melody from act 1 in the concluding act, aiding the audience in recalling the past. The scene starts out with Marcello and Rodolfo trying to work on their masterpieces (cross reference can be made to the opening sequence of Act 1). Like in the beginning, they are unable to concentrated, this time reminiscing about the good times with their loves. Once more, their friends, Colline and Schuanard, bring food and their singing and dancing over the meal get interrupted by a flustered Musetta, who informs them of Mimi’s condition. Mimi gets carried into the room and the two pair of lovers reunite in due course. When left alone, Rodolfo and Mimi reminisce about how they first met (in Act 1) and the music here is identical to that of the first act. Besides recalling the scenarios, the bonnet that Rodolfo gave Mimi in Act 2 is also mentioned. The symbolism here in repeating the melody and replaying the scenes in the audience’s minds is perhaps to brig closure to the characters and the opera as well. As with all tragedies, one half of the main coupling dies to bring out the realism ad tragic aspects of this opera. We see a fulfillment of the promise made in Act 3—“Ci lascieremo alla stagion dei fior!” Finally she dies and the opera ends with Rodolfo in agony over the loss of his love.

ng scenes changes, facilitating the transition and hasten the change of acts. Being a contemporary adaptation set in 1958, the costumes donned by the cast were also different from the original. Gone were the frocks of the late 19th century (think “Little Woman” the movie), in replacement were more modernized coats and dresses.

Personally, I thoroughly enjoyed the orchestral music. Like I mentioned, Puccini’s style is appealing in the sense that his melodies are extremely tuneful and pleasant to the ears. This is evident in La Boheme. My favorite piece of music is the duet between Rodolfo and Mimi in Act 1. The two characters singing in unison made the music very soothing. Mimi, the soprano, hit all her notes beautifully and seemed to run smoothly through her parts. Rodolfo (a tenor) expressed emotion and great character in his singing. Though in the concluding act the melodies remain unchanged, I felt that their singing was less powerfully (emotionally). I cannot compare the actors’ acting skills to other opera singers as this is my first ever opera experience. However, it is apparent that the actors were consummate professionals who were able to bring out the emotions of the music and despite the language barrier; a lot can be interpreted from their facial expressions and actions.

Some topics in this essay:
La Boheme, Mimi Act, Juliet Romeo, Luhrmann’s Hollywood, Don Giovanni, Rodolfo Mimi, Personal Critique, Musetta’s Waltz, Marcello Mimi, Mimi Frankly, la boheme, rodolfo mimi, act 1, love story, act 2, act 3, rodolfo mimi act, don giovanni, bring food, 19th century, white dress,