Iolanta

Iolanta was Tchaikovsky's final opera, written in 1892 for the Mariinsky Theatre in St Petersburg. It premiered on December 18, 1892 in a double première bill with "The Nutcracker". The libretto was written by his brother Modest and was based on a Danish Play, "King Renés Daughter". The 2015 production we will see is the first time it has been performed by the Metropolitan Opera.

The action is set in southern France, specfically, Provence. Iolanta was born a princess and born blind. At birth she was betrothed to the Duke of Burgundy, Robert. Her blindness was hidden from Robert, and indeed, the entire world. The King sequestered Iolanta in a separate residence in a secluded garden that was off-limits to all on pain of death. The King had created the rumor that she was being raised in a convent in Spain. The King's physician, Ibn Hakia believes he can cure her blindness, but his cure requires that she become aware of her condition and truly desire to gain sight. But the King wishes to protect Iolanta against the possibility of dashed hope and decides against informing Iolanta.

The opera begins with Iolanta sensing vaguely that something is missing in her life.