Arias
and Cadenzas By Christine Suppes
Paris, July 8th
- “Les Fantomes de l’Opera” was the name of Franck Sorbier’s high spirited show
at the Lido, and opened with a tenor followed by two sopranos singing the joyous “Drinking
Song” from La Traviata. Libiamo ne’liete calici, (Let us quaff from the wine-cup
o’erflowing)---now there is a sentiment to get us in the mood for exquisite gowns,
coats and jackets created from Mr. Sorbier’s heart. One’s own heart could easily
be stolen by the maroon fitted and flared coat, embroidered with decorative scrolls
and love birds (an enduring theme of Mr. Sorbier’s) in gold, pink, brown and
red. A gold gown under a fairytale bustier embroidered in crystals and gold,
like a wild landscape, or a black corset with jet coral-esque detail could also
be the thief of the heart. His body conscious gold lace dresses were stand outs.
The audience was mesmerized by Mr. Sorbier’s gorgeously gowned models as they
walked languidly on the stage, blowing out candles burning from standing candelabras
or breaking off flowers from an elaborate arrangement. When the bride entered
from the ceiling in a feathery chariot, some of the audience did not want to
leave. In fact some of the audience stood up to “join in” with the sopranos and
tenor. It was a staged though spontaneous couture moment. Bravo Mr. Sorbier.
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