Diamond Necklace 'the Centrepiece' Of New Opera

Published on 27/08/08

A diamond necklace plays an important role in a forthcoming opera production, a new report reveals.

The Globe and Mail reports that the Canadian premiere of The Ghosts of Versailles by John Corigliano has as its centrepiece a diamond necklace, which is perceived to be powerful by the leading character, Beaumarchais.

Beaumarchais is a playwright who attempts to alter the course of the French Revolution 200 years after it occurred

The publication states: "Beaumarchais says he can stop the revolution - and Marie Antoinette's execution - with the queen's diamond necklace, a key prop in the opera-within-the-opera."

However, Marie-Antoinette does not accept the playwright's aim to change the course of history, instead falling in love with him.

The opera is set to premiere in Vancouver in the 2011-12 theatre season.

The French Revolution took place between 1789 and 1799 and was the beginning of France's shift from an absolute monarchy to a republic.