description Peter Grimes, Op. 33 Overview
Peter Grimes is an opera in three acts by Benjamin Britten, with an English libretto by Montagu Slater adapted from George Crabbe's narrative poem The Borough. The work premiered at Sadler's Wells Theatre in London in 1945 and centers on an ostracized fisherman dealing with his hostile Suffolk community following the deaths of his apprentices. The production is noted for its sophisticated orchestral interludes, which depict the changing moods of the sea. Its success marked a significant revival of English-language opera composition.
help Peter Grimes, Op. 33 FAQ
What is Britten's Peter Grimes based on?
Peter Grimes is based on 'The Borough,' a long narrative poem by the English poet George Crabbe published in 1810. Crabbe's poem depicted the harsh life of a Suffolk fishing community and the ostracism of a fisherman named Peter Grimes.
When did Britten's Peter Grimes premiere?
Peter Grimes premiered on June 7, 1945, at Sadler's Wells Theatre in London, conducted by Reginald Goodall. It is widely regarded as the work that revived English-language opera in the 20th century.
Where is Peter Grimes set?
The opera is set in 'The Borough,' a fictional Suffolk fishing village closely modeled on Aldeburgh, where George Crabbe lived. Britten later founded the Aldeburgh Festival in 1948 in the same coastal town.
What are the Four Sea Interludes from Peter Grimes?
Britten extracted six orchestral interludes from the opera, four of which are commonly performed together as the Four Sea Interludes: 'Dawn,' 'Sunday Morning,' 'Moonlight,' and 'Storm.' They depict the changing moods of the North Sea coast and frame the dramatic action of the opera.
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