The Hours is a contemporary opera composed by Nico Muhly, with a libretto by Craig Lucas. The opera is based on the Pulitzer Prize-winning novel by Michael Cunningham and tells the interconnected stories of three women across different time periods. The opera explores themes of love, loss, and the search for meaning, and is known for its hauntingly beautiful score and poetic libretto. Starring: Renée Fleming, Kelli O’Hara, and Joyce DiDonato.
PERFORMANCE DATES MAY 5 -31.
ESTIMATED RUN TIME 2 HRS 55MINS.
Metropolitan Opera House Address:
30 Lincoln Center Plaza,
New York, NY 10023
"Metropolitan Opera Presents: The Hours"
Prepare to be captivated by a unique operatic experience that interweaves the lives of three women across different eras in "The Hours." Based on Michael Cunningham's Pulitzer Prize-winning novel and brought to the stage by composer Nico Muhly, this opera offers a profound exploration of human connection, identity, and the passage of time.
A Tapestry of Lives:
"The Hours" presents a triptych of narratives, featuring three women from different generations: Virginia Woolf, Laura Brown, and Clarissa Vaughan. Their lives are intertwined by a common thread of longing, uncertainty, and the search for meaning. The opera navigates their inner worlds and struggles, creating a rich tapestry of emotions and experiences.
An Exploration of Time:
At the heart of "The Hours" lies an intricate exploration of time and its impact on human existence. The characters' stories unfold across different time periods, highlighting the interconnectedness of past, present, and future. As the opera delves into their thoughts and interactions, it invites the audience to contemplate the transient nature of life and the moments that shape our destinies.
Music that Echoes Emotion:
Composer Nico Muhly's evocative score brings the characters' emotional landscapes to life. Through a blend of haunting melodies, intricate harmonies, and modern sensibilities, the music mirrors the complexities of the human psyche and the intricate interplay of their lives.
"An Immersive Operatic Exploration"
Profound Characters:
"The Hours" showcases a trio of complex, multidimensional women whose struggles and triumphs resonate across time. Virginia Woolf's creative genius and inner turmoil, Laura Brown's domestic unease, and Clarissa Vaughan's reflections on life's choices converge to create a vivid mosaic of human experience. Their stories remind us of the universal challenges we all face.
Metropolitan Opera's Vision:
Presenting "The Hours" demonstrates the Metropolitan Opera's commitment to presenting diverse and thought-provoking narratives. The company's dedication to exploring a range of themes and perspectives enriches the operatic landscape, offering audiences a chance to engage with both traditional and contemporary stories.
A Profound Journey:
As "The Hours" unfolds on the stage, audiences are invited to journey through the lives, thoughts, and emotions of these three women. The opera encourages reflection on the nature of existence, the choices we make, and the relationships that shape our lives.
A Multifaceted Experience:
The opera's seamless blend of music, storytelling, and staging creates a multifaceted experience that immerses the audience in the characters' inner worlds. The set design, lighting, and costumes further enhance the atmosphere, drawing viewers into the emotional tapestry of "The Hours."
Join the Exploration:
Whether you are a seasoned opera enthusiast or someone seeking a deeply resonant experience, "The Hours" promises an evening of thought-provoking artistry at the Metropolitan Opera. Engage with the opera's themes, connect with its characters, and allow the music and narrative to lead you on a journey through time, emotion, and the intricate threads that bind us all.