Lakmé

Surrey Opera returns with an exciting new production of the French composer Delibes’ colourful opera Lakmé. Set in India, it tells the story of the struggle between love and the call of duty, when a British Army officer falls for a Hindu Goddess.

Lakmé combines many orientalist aspects that were popular at the time: an exotic location, similar to other French operas of the period such as Bizet’s The Pearl Fishers, a fanatical priest and mysterious rituals.

The opera includes the popular Flower Duet sung by Lakmé, the daughter of a Brahmin priest, and her servant Mallika. The name Lakmé is the French version of the Sanskrit Lakshimi, the name of the Hindu Goddess of Wealth. Some years back, the Duet became more widely known because of its use in advertisements etc; in particular a British Airways commercial.

The opera’s most famous aria is the Bell Song, sung by Lakmé herself. A favourite ‘party piece’ among coloratura sopranos.

Lakmé will be performed by a stellar cast, orchestra and chorus. Directed by Alex Pearson and conducted by Jonathan Butcher, Surrey Opera’s Artistic Director, we feel sure it will be an production to remember.