The Dialogues of the Carmelites tells a story based on the struggle of the Carmelite nuns. It is presented in two performances this weekend by the Louisiana Opera.
The nuns, during the closing days of the Reign of Terror during the French Revolution, were guillotined for refusing to renounce their work. Louisiana Opera Director Dr. Mark Clark says the fictional story centers around the character, Blanche, and her role in the Carmelite Order.
The opera is unique, in that it is performed in 14 scenes, or segments, rather than a more traditional presentation. Performances are Friday at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday afternoon at 2 p.m. at Northminster Church in Monroe.