The myth of Orpheus, a legendary poet whose music could move even the fiercest creatures of the Underworld to tears, was transformed into an opera by the 18th-century composer Christoph Willibald Gluck. First performed in French in 1774, the opera features dramatic scenes, powerful arias, and innovative orchestration that showcase Gluck's mastery of the operatic form. It is considered one of his most significant works, blending emotional depth with musical brilliance. In the story, Orpheus is devastated by the loss of his wife, Eurydice. Love, personified as a character in the opera, offers him a chance to bring her back from the Underworld, but with a strict condition: he must never look her in the eye once they return to the living world. Orpheus agrees and embarks on a perilous journey to the realm of the dead, where he must use his music and resolve to convince the rulers of the Underworld to let Eurydice return. Lorraine de Sagazan, a former resident of the prestigious Villa Medici, is making her debut as a stage director with this production. Known for her acclaimed theatrical works, she aims to explore the deeper layers of the Orpheus and Eurydice story, which is often seen as a romantic ideal. However, she challenges this view, suggesting that the narrative also reflects more complex themes about human relationships and the nature of love. The opera will be performed by renowned French singers, including Sahy Ratia as Orpheus, Jenny Daviet as Eurydice, and Mariamielle Lamagat as Love. The production features a chorus from the Angers Nantes Opera and is conducted by Alphonse Cemin. The staging, set design, costumes, and lighting are all crafted by a team of talented artists. The production will run in Nantes at the Théâtre Graslin from October 10 to 18, 2026, and in Angers at the Grand Theatre from November 3 to 4.