L’Étoile

Every year, King Ouf I looks forward to his self-imposed birthday present: having a random subject executed. This year, the choice falls on the cheeky peddler Lazuli. But, court astrologer Siroco warns the king: Ouf's star is closely linked to Lazuli's. If híj́ dies, then Ouf dies. Instead of a gruesome punishment, a life full of luxury, privileges and even marriage to the princess suddenly awaits Lazuli!

This absurdity is the basis ofL’Étoile: a witty, socially critical opera by Emmanuel Chabrier. This Opéra Bouffe oscillates between light-hearted comedy, black humor and sharp satire. Chabrier's music is as surprising as the plot: a playful mix of sparkling melodies, impressionistic tones and subcutaneous darkness, in which the influence of Jacques Offenbach shines through and even points vooruit to Kurt Weill.

Is L’Étoile A fairy tale? A political parody? Existential satire? It is everything at once. In any case, it holds up a laughing mirror to us, astutely exposing the arbitrariness of power, the folly of fate and the transience of existence.

Director Matthew Eberhardt brings this unique story to life with great enthusiasm. Orchestra Philzuid provides the music under the direction of French conductor Nicolas Krüger. The opera is sung and spoken in French, with Dutch and English surtitles.

• With free introduction at 6:15 p.m. (May 15) and 1:45 p.m. (May 17)