On May 17th, in the intimacy of the Royal Chapel at the Château de Versailles, Charpentier’s David et Jonathas came to life in a performance that felt both timeless and deeply moving.
This opera, a gem of the French baroque, is rarely heard in such a fitting setting. Marc-Antoine Charpentier’s music is rich with emotion, subtle in its expression, and full of spiritual intensity. Under the baton of Gaétan Jarry, the music soared—refined, precise, and full of heart. Jarry led with both clarity and sensitivity, bringing out the full dramatic and lyrical power of the score.
Visually, the production was magnificent. Christian Lacroix’s costumes were elegant, textured, and perfectly in tune with the chapel’s ornate surroundings. The danced sections added an ethereal quality to the staging, blurring the lines between ritual and drama in the most beautiful way.
Reinoud Van Mechelen was impeccable as David. With his expressive voice and natural stage presence, he embodied the role with quiet strength and vulnerability. Caroline Arnaud, as Jonathas, was the perfect partner—her voice pure and warm, her portrayal deeply touching. François-Olivier Jean gave a magnetic performance as the Pythonisse, mysterious and unforgettable, while David Witczak offered a powerful, tormented Saül—fully convincing in his descent into despair.
It was, in every way, a superb evening—musically rich, emotionally resonant, and visually stunning. Experiencing a work like David et Jonathas in such a historic and sacred space remind us of how vital the Opéra Royal de Versailles is in preserving and celebrating the tragédie lyrique tradition. Long live these rare and magical nights.
CAST :
- Reinoud Van Mechelen : David
- Caroline Arnaud : Jonathas
- David Witczak : Saül
- François-Olivier Jean : Pythonisse
- Antonin Rondepierre : Joabel
- Geoffroy Buffière : L’ombre de Samuel
- Cyril Costanzo : Achis
- Ballet de l’Opéra Royal
- Marguerite Louise Chœur et Orchestre
