The Comedie Francaise at Orange

The Comedie Francaise at Orange

The narrative explores the revival of the ancient Roman theatre in Orange, France, which had been abandoned for centuries. The theatre, a significant architectural achievement from the time of Marcus Aurelius, is depicted as a majestic structure that once hosted vibrant performances. The text details the efforts made over the years to restore the theatre and reestablish it as a venue for dramatic arts, culminating in performances by the Comedie Francaise. The author recounts the historical significance of the theatre, its architectural features, and the cultural context of its original use. The narrative highlights the theatre's grandeur, emphasizing its massive facade and the acoustic properties that enhance performances. The author reflects on the theatre's decline during the barbarian invasions and subsequent misuse over the centuries, leading to its near ruin. The restoration efforts are chronicled, focusing on key figures like Auguste Caristie and Fernand Michel, who dedicated their lives to preserving the theatre. Their passion and commitment eventually led to the revival of performances, including operas and tragedies, which were met with enthusiastic public reception. The text describes the atmosphere during the performances, capturing the audience's excitement and the emotional impact of the plays. The author notes the unique setting of the theatre, where the natural elements, such as the mistral wind, interacted with the performances, adding a layer of realism and poignancy to the tragedies presented. The narrative culminates in a detailed account of specific performances, particularly "Oedipus" and "Antigone," showcasing the actors' skill and the profound connection between the audience and the historical setting. The author reflects on the psychological and emotional resonance of the plays, enhanced by the theatre's ancient walls and the shared experience of the audience. Ultimately, the work serves as a tribute to the enduring legacy of the theatre, celebrating its revival as a cultural landmark and a testament to the power of art to transcend time and connect generations. The narrative concludes with a sense of fulfillment, as the theatre once again becomes a vibrant space for artistic expression, echoing the glory of its past.

By Thomas A. Janvier · First published 1900 · Genre: Historical Fiction, Drama, Literary Criticism · 11 chapters · 13,252 words

First lines

After a lapse of nearly fifteen centuries, the Roman theatre at Orange -- founded in the time of Marcus Aurelius and abandoned, two hundred years later, when the Northern barbarians overran the land -- seems destined to arise reanimate from its ruins and to be the scene of periodic performances by the Comedie Francaise: the first dramatic company of Europe playing on the noblest stage in the world. During the past five-and-twenty years various attempts have been made to compass this happy end. Now -- as the result of the representations of "Oedipus" and "Antigone" at Orange, under government patronage and by the leading actors of the National Theatre -- these spasmodic efforts have crystallized into a steadfast endeavour which promises to restore and to repeople that long-abandoned stage.[4]

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The Comedie Francaise at Orange is listed on Textopian as a short story by Thomas A. Janvier, dated 1900 CE.

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theater · French drama · historical · performance · culture · art · literature · comedy · playwrights · audience · stage · tradition

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More by Thomas A. Janvier