Overview

Synopsis

Set during the interval of a performance of Don Giovanni, the writer and poet Hoffmann entertains a group of students and drinkers in Luther's Tavern by telling them of his three greatest past loves. He is guided through his memories by his Muse, disguised as his friend Nicklausse.

In Hoffman's stories, three different women are presented, each with their own strengths and flaws, and each with their own tragic tale. Each of the women represents just one aspect of Hoffman's perfect woman; the leading lady in the opera that night, Stella.

Hoffman relives his tragic love stories, and his most vulnerable moments, eventually returning to the present, where he is deep in sorrow, lacking the will to do anything but sleep.

Show Information

Based on the Play/Book/Film
Stories by E. T. A Hoffmann
Category
Opera
Age Guidance
Youth (Y)/General Audiences (G)
Number of Acts
3
First Produced
1881
Genres
Drama, Dark Comedy, Romance, Fairy Tale/Fantasy
Settings
Multiple Settings, Spectacle, Period
Time & Place
Early 19th century, Germany, Italy, Luther's Tavern
Cast Size
large
Orchestra Size
Medium
Dancing
Optional
Licensor
None/royalty-free
Ideal For
College/University, Professional Opera, Star Vehicle Female, Star Vehicle Male, Mostly Male Cast, Includes Adult, Young Adult, Mature Adult Characters, Large Cast

Lead Characters

Les contes d'Hoffmann  logo

Nicklausse

Lead, Either Gender, Mezzo-Soprano

Les contes d'Hoffmann

Les contes d'Hoffmann  logo

Lindorf

Supporting, Male, Bass-Baritone

Les contes d'Hoffmann

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