Thaïs
Comédie lyrique en 3 actes
Libretto by Louis Gallet
Music by Jules Massenet
First Performance: Opéra, Paris, March 16, 1894
Background
There are two stories about the genesis of this opera. First, it is said that Louis Gallet suggested it to Massenet. The other, states that Mme. Massenet read an article in Le Théâtre. The review of Anatole France’s novel Thaïs was described as a perfect source for a composer like Massenet. Whichever is true, Massenet saw this opera as a perfect role for his favorite singer at the time: Sibyl Sanderson.
The American diva caused a major cabal by signing a contract with the Paris Opéra, while Thaïs was written for the Opéra-Comique. It was left to Massenet to wheel and deal between the 2 major companies in Paris to come to an agreement.
One other note, after the opening night, Massenet was called into the manager’s office and told what changes he was to make. These changes included adding the Oasis scene.
Synopsis
Act I.
Scene 1.
Athanael, a Cenobite monk, is distressed by the sensation in Alexandria caused by the courtesan Thais, whom he had known in his earlier, prereligious days. He resolves to convert her from a life of dishonor to piety.
Scene 2. At Alexandria he is received by Nicias, an old friend and Thais' current lover, and is invited to a banquet which Thais will attend. Two slaves, Crobyle and Myrtale, array the monk in appropriate dress.
Act II.Scene 1.At first Thais mocks Athanael; later she invites him to her home to hear him further. On the verge of acquiescing to his wish, she temporizes and sends him away. The "Meditation" suggests her thoughts. Undiscouraged, Athanael waits at her threshold.
Scene 2.In a few hours Thais appears, her conversion finally complete. In spite of the efforts of a crowd of revelers to prevent her going she follows Athanael to a convent.
Act III. Scene 1.Oasis Scene.
Scene 2.After the nuns have led her away, Athanael realizes that he loves her desperately.
Scene 3.
In a dream he sees her dying. He hurries to the convent where Thais is, indeed, in her final extremity. The frustrated monk confesses his earthly love as his convert dies a holy death.
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