An Introduction to PUCCINI La Boheme

Written by Thomson Smillie Narrated by David Timson

 

 

OPERA EXPLAINED

An entertaining but informative series introducing the major operas of the repertoire, with historical background, an explanation of the plot and a presentation of the main arias and themes. Opera Explained is a unique idea. Nothing of its kind exists. An ideal introduction to individual operas either to prepare for the full Naxos recording, or a visit to the opera house.

 

LA BOHEME

La Boheme is one of three operas, the others being Carmen and Aida, believed to be the most popular ever written. In the case of La Boheme the reason is that it virtually defines the term ‘romantic’ The poignant story of Mimi and Rodolfo is told in music of such tender beauty, allied, as always to Puccini’s intution of what works in the theatre, resulting in an opera that has huge emotional and sensory appeal.

 

THOMSON SMILLIE

Thomson Smillie began his career in the early days of Scottish Opera and has been artistic director of the Wexford International Festival, general manager of the Opera Company of Boston and general director of Kentucky Opera.  He now makes a career as a writer, speech-writer and public speaker.  He has a strong belief that people mature into a love of opera and travels the world encouraging a love of the art form.  His other passions are travel, languages and friendships.

 

DAVID TIMSON

David Timson studied acting and singing at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama. He has performed in modern and classic plays through the UK and abroad, including Wild Honey for Alan Ayckbourn, Hamlet, The Man of Mode and The Seagull. Among his many TV appearances have been roles in Nelson’s Column and Swallows and Amazons. For Naxos AudioBooks, he as recorded, to date, three volumes of The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes, and directed Twelfth Night as well as playing Feste. He is the narrator in the Naxos recording of Stravinsky’s The Soldier’s Tale.

 

Naxos Classics Explained 8558011

1 CD + 8 page booklet. A narrated introduction to the opera with history, the plot, and the main themes.