Modern designs by Pierre Yovanovitch give a fresh, contemporary feel to the Korea National Opera in Seoul.
In a remarkable foray into the world of opera production, renowned French interior architect and furniture designer, Pierre Yovanovitch, has unveiled his first set and costume design for Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart's timeless opera, Le Nozze di Figaro. This groundbreaking collaboration with the Korea National Opera in Seoul has resulted in a visually striking and contemporary interpretation of this classic opera.
The Production
- Opera:Le Nozze di Figaro by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
- Company: Korea National Opera
- Location: Seoul, South Korea
Pierre Yovanovitch assumed dual roles, designing both the set and costumes for this production, marking his debut in theatrical design. His distinctive minimalist and elegant style translated beautifully into a fresh, contemporary interpretation of this iconic opera.
Design Inspiration
Yovanovitch's design for Le Nozze di Figaro is rooted in his appreciation for mid-century modernism, Japanese aesthetics, and an emphasis on craftsmanship and materiality. For this production, these influences manifested as minimalist geometry, a focus on natural textures, and a contemporary twist on tradition.
Collaboration with Vincent Huguet
Vincent Huguet, an experienced opera director and scenographer, collaborated closely with Yovanovitch. Their partnership was marked by a dynamic exchange, with Huguet contributing dramaturgical insights and theatrical expertise, ensuring that Yovanovitch’s design choices enhanced the storytelling and actor movement.
Key Features
- Rotating Platform: The stage features a rotating platform, allowing for seamless transitions between the Countess's atelier and the Count's house.
- Inspired Architecture: The set design includes a smooth, spiral tower and an imposing symmetrical structure inspired by 1920s and 1930s modernist architecture. The design also draws on the stepped form of the ancient Mesopotamian ziggurat and the minimalist geometry of Villa Noailles.
- Setting Sun: A setting sun that tracks the passage of time adds a poignant element to the production.
- Costumes: Yovanovitch's costumes blend traditional Korean attire with 1920s-30s fashion, reflecting the contradictions and complexities of the characters.
The Future
This innovative collaboration between Pierre Yovanovitch and Vincent Huguet has set a new standard for cross-disciplinary collaborations between interior design and opera production. Their work on Le Nozze di Figaro has been well-received, and they will continue their partnership on Wagner's 'The Valkyrie' at the Rome Opera House.
For more information about Pierre Yovanovitch and his work, subscribe to his newsletter for daily inspiration, escapism, and design stories from around the world. You can find more details about the production at pierreyovanovitch.com, and the Korea National Opera's production website can be found at nationalopera.org.
