Leon Botstein Revives Meyerbeer’s “Le Prophète” at Bard College

Leon Botstein, president of Bard College and music director of the American Symphony Orchestra, has once again demonstrated his commitment to unearthing overlooked classical works. This summer, Botstein has brought Giacomo Meyerbeer’s opera “Le Prophète” back to the American stage as part of Bard’s SummerScape festival. The opera, which hasn’t been performed in the U.S. since the late 1970s, opened to much anticipation and runs until August 4th.

Botstein’s revival of “Le Prophète” is part of his broader mission at SummerScape, a festival he founded in 2003. The festival aims to showcase rare and underappreciated works that have been neglected over time. “There is no composer in the history of classical music and opera whose posthumous career has been so startlingly destroyed as Meyerbeer,” Botstein stated. He believes that the shift towards realism in opera and changing audience tastes led to Meyerbeer’s unjust obscurity.

Set in Bard’s 900-seat Sosnoff Theater, this production of “Le Prophète” aligns with Botstein’s vision for SummerScape. The opera, which deals with themes of demagoguery and religious fanaticism, has been reimagined for modern audiences by director Christian Räth. “The piece unfortunately feels very, very modern and rings a lot of bells for today,” Räth noted, emphasizing the opera’s contemporary relevance.

Leon Botstein, collaborating with musicologist Mark Everist, restored the opera’s original 11-minute overture, which Meyerbeer had cut during rehearsals. However, practical considerations led to the omission of the third-act ballet, with excerpts presented in the lobby during intermissions.

The production’s cast includes notable talents such as tenor Robert Watson as Jean, mezzo-soprano Jennifer Feinstein as Fidès, and soprano Amina Edris as Berthe. Botstein himself conducts the American Symphony Orchestra, bringing his characteristic energy and profound understanding of Meyerbeer’s score.

Known for spotting rising stars, Botstein has previously launched successful careers for many young performers. As “Le Prophète” continues its run, audiences are reminded of the musical treasures that still await rediscovery, thanks to Botstein’s relentless dedication.

Leon Botstein, president of Bard College and music director of the American Symphony Orchestra, has once again demonstrated his commitment to unearthing overlooked classical works. This summer, Botstein has brought Giacomo Meyerbeer’s opera “Le Prophète” back to the American stage as part of Bard’s SummerScape festival. The opera, which hasn’t been performed in the U.S.…

Leon Botstein, president of Bard College and music director of the American Symphony Orchestra, has once again demonstrated his commitment to unearthing overlooked classical works. This summer, Botstein has brought Giacomo Meyerbeer’s opera “Le Prophète” back to the American stage as part of Bard’s SummerScape festival. The opera, which hasn’t been performed in the U.S.…