Two operas with classical themes. SALAMMBO by Camille du Locle is based on Gustave Flaubert's well-known novel of the same name. The story is set in Carthage after the First Punic War, when mercenaries hired by the state revolt for lack of payment. The leader of the insurrectionists, Matho, falls in love with Salammbo, daughter of General Hamilcar--and this obsession leads ultimately to his destruction. DIDO, by Jean-Francois Marmontel, is one of the best modern dramatizations of the great love story recounted by Virgil in his epic poem, The Aeneid. The Trojan prince Aeneas, who has sought refuge in Carthage after the destruction of Troy, falls in love with Queen Dido. She in turn spurns the affections of Yarbas, a Morrocan king, prompting an attack on the city. After defending Dido's honor, Aeneas is compelled by the gods to continue his journey to Italy, where he'll eventually become the founder of the Roman city and state. Two great tragedies of love won--and love lost

Three French libretti on classical themes. In CASTOR AND POLLUX, by Pierre Bernard, one of the twins from ancient myth attempts to rescue his brother from the underworld. PENELOPE, by Jean-Francois Marmontel, tells the story of Ulysses' return to Ithaca after his long journey home from Troy, and how he takes revenge on the boorish suitors of his wife, Penelope, who have browbeaten her for years. Emile Augier presents the story of SAPPHO, another tragedy set in classical times, full of betrayal and self-sacrifice. Ancient Greek drama had much in common with modern opera, emphasizing story lines that have been simplified to focus very tightly on particular emotional themes. The freshness and charm of these French dramatizations make them worthy of being brought to the attention of a contemporary audience.