In this book, Rebecca Harris-Warrick dismantles the prevailing notion that dance in French Baroque opera was merely decorative, and presents compelling evidence that the divertissement is essential to understanding the work. Evolving practices in music, librettos, choreography and staging are brought to bear on sixty years of operatic history.
Focusing on the rich history of French Baroque opera, this book explores the development of music, librettos, choreographed dance, and staging techniques. It delves into how these elements have changed over time, highlighting the innovative practices that defined the genre and its cultural significance. Through detailed analysis, the work reveals the intricate relationship between theatrical performance and musical composition in shaping the Baroque era's operatic landscape.