The Ghosts of Versailles (TV)

What happened to Figaro and his friends after the events told in Rossinis and Mozarts operas? One possible sequel is told in John Coriglianos grand opera buffa The Ghosts of Versaillesan uproariously funny and deeply moving work inspired by Beaumarchaiss third Figaro play, La Mère Coupable, and commissioned by the Met to celebrate its 100th anniversary. This telecast captures its world premiere run, conducted by James Levine. Håkan Hagegård is Beaumarchais, Figaros creator, who is deeply in love with Marie Antoinette (Teresa Stratas in a heart-searing performance) and determined to rewrite history and save her from the guillotine. A young Renée Fleming, at the beginning of her international career, sings the unfaithful Rosina. Gino Quilico is the wily Figaro who tries to take matters in his own hands, and Marilyn Horne stops the show as the exotic entertainer Samira.