Ambroise Thomas - Thomas: Hamlet (LP)

Immerse yourself in the timeless tragedy of Shakespeare's Hamlet, masterfully composed by Ambroise Thomas. This album, released on January 1, 2012, under Warner Classics, is a captivating journey through the intricate web of madness, revenge, and moral corruption that defines this classic tale. Spanning a substantial 3 hours and 5 minutes, the album is a comprehensive exploration of Thomas's operatic genius, featuring a full cast of talented performers bringing the characters of Hamlet to life.

The album is a complete recording of Thomas's opera "Hamlet," divided into acts and scenes, much like the original play. Each track is a musical portrayal of the drama unfolding between Hamlet, his love Ophélie, his betrayers, and his vengeful father's ghost. The opera is sung in French, adding a unique cultural perspective to the familiar story.

The album opens with the Prelude, setting the tone for the tragic events to follow. As the story unfolds, you'll hear the iconic soliloquy "Être ou ne pas être" (To be or not to be) in Hamlet's powerful voice, along with other memorable arias and choruses that bring the story to life. The album also includes an appendix with additional scenes and ballet music, providing a complete listening experience.

Ambroise Thomas's "Hamlet" is a testament to the enduring power of Shakespeare's storytelling and the beauty of 19th-century French opera. Whether you're a fan of classical music, opera, or Shakespeare, this album is sure to captivate and enthrall.