In a stunning revival, Leon Botstein, president of Bard College and music director of the American Symphony Orchestra, has resurrected Giacomo Meyerbeer’s “Le Prophète” at the SummerScape festival. The opera, which has remained in the shadows since the late 1970s, took center stage at Bard’s Sosnoff Theater from July 20 to August 4.
Botstein’s commitment to unearthing neglected works is well-documented. His passion for Meyerbeer’s grand opera stems from a broader mission to restore the reputations of composers whose works have been unjustly forgotten. “There is no composer in the history of classical music and opera whose posthumous career has been so startlingly destroyed as Meyerbeer,” Botstein explained.
The production of “Le Prophète” featured a stellar cast, including tenor Robert Watson as Jean, mezzo-soprano Jennifer Feinstein as Fidès, and soprano Amina Edris as Berthe. Botstein conducted the American Symphony Orchestra, bringing his expertise and energy to the complex score.
One of the unique aspects of this revival was its contemporary reimagining. Directed by Christian Räth, the opera’s 16th-century setting was juxtaposed with modern elements to highlight its timeless themes of fanaticism and political manipulation. “The piece unfortunately feels very, very modern and rings a lot of bells for today,” Räth observed.
Botstein worked closely with musicologist Mark Everist to restore the opera’s original 11-minute overture, which Meyerbeer had cut during rehearsals. However, due to practical considerations, the third-act ballet was omitted, with excerpts performed in the lobby during intermissions—a decision that showcased Botstein’s innovative approach to historical authenticity.
Leon Botstein’s dedication to musical scholarship is evident not only in his programming choices but also in his ability to spotlight emerging talent. The 2009 SummerScape production of another Meyerbeer opera, “Les Huguenots,” featured rising stars who have since achieved significant careers. This year’s “Le Prophète” promises to do the same.
As Botstein continues to champion overlooked operatic works, he reinforces Bard College’s position as a hub for artistic innovation and cultural preservation. With plans already underway for next year’s SummerScape, audiences can look forward to more rediscovered gems.