OPERA
The Esmeralda
In 1836, Victor Hugo and Louise Bertin created an opera together, which was inspired by Notre-Dame de Paris. Hugo wrote the libretto and Louise the music.
Louis Boulanger, a friend of the poet, designed the costumes. Berlioz, engaged by Mr. Bertin, directed the rehearsals.
The Esmeralda was given to the Opera but the performances were progressively cut, then abandoned. Bertin’s enemies silenced the musicians, shouting : « Down with Bertin ! Down with the Journal des Débats ! «