With its lively dances, ghost scenes and touching arias, Hamlet was Ambroise Thomas’s single great success of the Paris Opera, remaining in its repertoire for decades after the 1868 premiere. On the opening night, the title role was sung by a baritone, as has become the custom ever since. With the rediscovery of the original score in recent years, it transpires that Thomas originally scored the role of Hamlet for a tenor. In this new production of Teatro Regio Torino, the tenor John Osborn is the tormented prince, singing the celebrated monologue “To be or not to be” (“Être ou ne pas être”). Sara Blanch sings Ophélie, whose pyrotechnic aria in the mad scene is a pièce de résistance for a coloratura soprano. Under the musical direction of Jérémie Rhorer, the production is directed by Jacopo Spirei.
as Hamlet, Prince of Denmark
as Ophélie, daughter of Polonius
as Gertrude, Queen of Denmark and mother of Hamlet
as Claudius, King of Denmark
as Laërte, son of Polonius
as Ghost of the late King, Hamlet’s father
as Marcellus officer, friend of Hamlet
as Horatio officer, friend of Hamlet
as Polonius, Lord Chamberlain of the Royal Household
as First Gravedigger
as Second Gravedigger
