Adrien (opera)

Adrien, Empereur is an opera in three acts by composer Marcel Landowski to a French libretto by Roger Ikor. It premiered on 26 January 1972 at the Théâtre du Châtelet in Paris.

The opera tells the story of the Roman Emperor Hadrian (Adrien in French), exploring themes of power, mortality, love, and artistic legacy. The libretto draws inspiration from Marguerite Yourcenar's historical novel Memoirs of Hadrian ( Mémoires d'Hadrien). The work delves into Hadrian's reflections on his life, his relationship with his young lover Antinous, and his efforts to secure the Roman Empire's future.

The opera's music is characterized by its dramatic intensity and lyrical beauty, reflecting the complex emotional landscape of the protagonist. Landowski's score blends traditional operatic elements with modern harmonic language. The role of Adrien is a demanding one, requiring a powerful and expressive baritone voice. Other significant roles include Antinous, Plotina (Hadrian's mother-in-law), and various members of Hadrian's court and entourage.

While Adrien, Empereur received some initial attention, it has not become a standard part of the operatic repertoire. However, it remains a notable example of 20th-century French opera and a significant interpretation of Hadrian's life and reign. Performances of excerpts from the opera are occasionally presented.