Rameau’s Platea from Prague State Opera

Rameau’s comic masterpiece shines in Prague, led by Václav Luks with Marcel Beekman in a virtuosic and theatrical title role.

Jean-Philippe Rameau’s Platea, a singular work in the French Baroque repertoire, returns to the stage in a refined new production from the Prague State Opera. Rarely performed in Central Europe until recent decades, this comic opera, rediscovered in the mid-20th century, has since gained recognition through landmark interpretations by leading Baroque specialists. Its presentation in Prague marks a significant step in the growing appreciation of French Baroque opera within the Czech musical landscape.

The production is conducted by Václav Luks, a key figure in the revival of historically informed performance in Bohemia. Leading an orchestra enriched by musicians from Collegium 1704, Luks brings clarity, rhythmic vitality and stylistic finesse to Rameau’s richly inventive score.

Staged by the Czech directing duo SKUTR, the production balances fidelity to the original spirit of this ballet bouffon with a visually inventive yet controlled theatrical approach. At its centre, Dutch tenor Marcel Beekman delivers a highly expressive and technically accomplished performance in the demanding title role of the nymph Platea. He is joined by Ruairi Bowen as Thespis and Mercury, and Czech baritone Lukáš Zeman as Momus, forming a cohesive and dynamic cast.

Combining musical excellence with theatrical intelligence, this production confirms Platée as a work of enduring relevance and highlights Prague as an emerging stage for the French Baroque repertoire.

Genre Live Show
Recording location Prague State Opera
Production year 2025
Director Sébastien Glas
Stage Director SKUTR
Chorus Master State Opera Orchestra
Soloist Marcel Beekman