Feeria

Feeria (sometimes spelled Feéria or Féeria) refers to a type of theatrical spectacle, primarily popular in 19th-century France, characterized by elaborate stage machinery, fantastical settings, and a large cast of characters, often including magical beings and supernatural elements. It is closely related to the genre of fairy tale plays, but often on a grander scale.

Characteristics:

• Spectacle: The defining element of a féeria was its visual grandeur. Elaborate stage effects, including trapdoors, flying machinery, transformations, and lavish costumes, were essential.
• Fantasy and Magic: Themes centered on fairy tales, mythology, and folklore. Magic spells, fantastical creatures, and otherworldly landscapes were common.
• Large Casts: Féeries typically involved a large number of actors, dancers, and extras to populate the stage and create impressive crowd scenes.
• Simplified Narrative: The storyline was often secondary to the spectacle, serving primarily as a framework for showcasing visual and theatrical effects. The plots were generally straightforward, often involving a hero or heroine overcoming obstacles with the help of magical intervention.
• Musical Accompaniment: Music played a significant role, often with original scores incorporating songs and dances.
• Length: Féeries were typically quite long, often running for several hours.

History:

The development of féeria can be traced to the innovations in stagecraft during the 19th century, particularly the invention of gas lighting and improved stage machinery. These advancements allowed for more elaborate and realistic special effects, which in turn fueled the demand for increasingly spectacular theatrical productions.

Notable Examples:

While many féeries were produced, some of the most notable include:

• Les Pilules du Diable (The Devil's Pills)
• Le Pied de Mouton (The Mutton Foot)

Influence:

Féeria had a significant influence on other theatrical genres, including pantomime, musical theater, and early cinema. Its emphasis on spectacle and fantasy continues to resonate in modern entertainment.