Enter the heart of the creation and discover the artists at work!

The Paris National Opera offers Arop members the privilege of observing the work of the artists and the genesis of a production at different times: work sessions, pre-dress rehearsals and dress rehearsals.

PETER GRIMES

When Benjamin Britten produced his first opera, Peter Grimes, for the reopening of Sadler’s Wells in London in 1945, its success was both immediate and resounding. Drawing inspiration from a poem by George Crabbe, the British composer did more than simply set to music the text by his compatriot: this work signalled a renaissance in English opera, which had all but disappeared since the death of Purcell. Whilst Britten’s superb orchestral interludes and accomplished lyricism confer upon the work a classical quality, its subject is thoroughly disturbing. Who is this Suffolk fisherman, Peter Grimes, whose apprentice drowns at sea; the butt of the villagers’ hostility? A murderer or an innocent man? A child‑killer or the victim of prejudice? An anti‑hero or a poet? These are some of the questions that make this character one of the most fascinating in the operatic repertoire. Invited to the Paris Opera for the first time and a fine connoisseur of Britten, Deborah Warner preserves all the mystery of this complex work, whilst emphasising the conflict between the group and the individual – a particularly burning issue.

Access requirements:

- Absolute discretion so that the artists do not feel the presence of an audience.

- It is forbidden to leave the room during the rehearsal.

- No photography or filming and no applause.

- In case of delay, entry are allowed only during the break.

Any person who does not respect these rules may be refused access to the rehearsals. Work sessions last approximately 3 hours with a 30 minute break for operas and 20 minutes for ballets.

Cancellation policy:

- These sessions may be interrupted or closed to the public at any time for technical or artistic reasons.

- If they are cancelled, the Arop cannot be held responsible for rescheduling your seat.

- In case of withdrawal, please inform us as soon as possible so that members on a waiting list can benefit from the available seats.

- Any cancellation on your part for a rehearsal (work session, pre-general and general), less than 2 working days before the date of the event, will be deducted from the number of places allocated per season.

Booking procedure:

The assignment of rehearsal seats is done by membership level: Founding Patron members have priority over Patron members, who have priority over Benefactor members, who have priority over Donor members, who have priority over Friend members.