Friday, May 16, 2014

Everyone at the Opera!



I love behind-the-scenes glimpses. And when it involves the arts, I’m a particular fan. So when I saw that two Paris opera houses (Opera Comique and Palais Garnier) were participating in this European-wide initiative to open their doors to the public, I had one thing to say: I’m there!

I thought I would share with you my photos of Palais Garnier (which just so happens to be the setting of Phantom of the Opera -- one of my favorite books and musicals). The stage area wasn’t open, unfortunately, as there was a rehearsal taking place, but the surrounding staircases, chandeliers, mirrored hallways, ballrooms and library were plenty to keep me busy.

Every time I enter the Palais Garnier, I’m in the Phantom of the Opera frame of mind. Even when the staircases are teeming with curious, photo-snapping visitors like me! It must be those imposing chandeliers and dark, imposing staircases. Gaston Leroux did a wonderful job capturing the feeling of the place through his words.


So here you have it… a mini virtual tour of the Palais Garnier, minus the stage and phantom!


This photo is so Phantom of the Opera-ish.


Me in front of a glamorous fire extinguisher.


I wish this was my library... but alas, it belongs to the Opera!


A "small" chandelier by Opera standards.


4 comments:

  1. Love this post!!! Thanks for sharing these photos!

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    1. My pleasure! It's such an amazing place... This opera house and a smaller one opened their doors to the public last weekend and it was so much fun to wander around and admire.

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  2. Wow! Thanks for sharing the photos of a really wonderful building.

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    1. It's worth a visit, even if you don't have time to see a show. The building itself is such a masterpiece! Glad you enjoyed the photos!

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