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Ralph Fiennes to Make Opera Directing Debut in Paris
Acclaimed actor Ralph Fiennes is set to embark on his operatic directorial debut in Paris next season, helming a production of Tchaikovsky’s renowned masterpiece, “Eugene Onegin.” This highly anticipated premiere marks a significant new chapter in Fiennes’ multifaceted career.
Production Details at Palais Garnier
The Paris Opera officially announced on Wednesday that Fiennes’ staging of “Eugene Onegin” will be presented from January 26 to February 27 at the prestigious Palais Garnier. The cast will feature prominent vocalists, including Boris Pinkhasovich in the titular role of Onegin, Ruzan Mantashyan portraying Tatiana, Bogdan Volkov as Lensky, and Susan Graham as Madame Larina.
Ralph Fiennes’ Diversified Artistic Background
Fiennes, a distinguished figure in the performing arts at 62 years old, has garnered substantial recognition for his acting work. He has received three Academy Award nominations, most recently for his performance in “Conclave,” and an Emmy Award nomination. His stage accolades include a Tony Award in 1995 for his portrayal of Hamlet in Shakespeare’s tragedy. Notably, Fiennes has a prior connection to “Eugene Onegin,” having starred in the 1999 film adaptation of Alexander Pushkin’s novel, the source material for the opera, directed by his sister Martha Fiennes.
Creative Team
Leading the musical interpretation of “Eugene Onegin” will be Semyon Bychkov, who will conduct the majority of the performances. The visual aspects of the production will be shaped by Michael Levine, responsible for set design, and Annemarie Woods, who will create the costume designs.
Paris Opera 2025-26 Season Highlights
The Paris Opera’s 2025-26 season boasts a diverse array of new productions, demonstrating its commitment to both classic and lesser-known works. Among the season’s premieres are Verdi’s grand opera “Aida,” Wagner’s monumental “Die Walküre” and “Siegfried” from the Ring Cycle, and Antonia Bembo’s Baroque opera “Ercole amante.”
Notable Revival Productions
The upcoming season will also feature the return of celebrated past productions. These revivals include Claus Guth’s innovative staging of Puccini’s “La Bohème,” reimagined in a science fiction setting on a spaceship and alien planet, and John Adams’ contemporary opera “Nixon in China,” featuring performances by acclaimed singers Renée Fleming and Thomas Hampson.