Richard L. Sprecker

Dialogues des Carmelites

by Francis Poulenc

During the time of the French Revolution, a religious order is determined to maintain their principles. A lonely, broken woman joins them, and finds her faith amidst the turmoil. This opera by Poulenc was my first operatic design, and a true joy. In addition to lighting this production, I also implemented projected imagery designed by scenic designer Evan Hill.

UMKC Conservatory of Music and Dance - White Recital Hall

November 2010

Directed by Marciem Bazell

Scenic Design by Evan Hill

Lighting Design by Richard L. Sprecker

Photography by Jordan Jenota and Evan Hill

The home of Blanche

Father and Brother lament Blanche.

Blanche Appears

Blanche tells her decision to her family.

Nuns in the Workroom

Spirited and happy, the sisters gather to work.

Blanche Confronts

Despite pleadings, Blanche chooses to remain as she is.

Blanche and the Reverend Mother

As the Reverend Mother lays dying, she imparts last blessings upon Blanche.

Prayer

The order prays for the Reverend Mother.

Keeping Vigil

Keeping watch over the departed Reverend Mother.

Confronting Blanche

Blanche is confronted about her duties.

Blessing

The sisters kneel and pray.

Invocation of the Father

The Father dutifully leads the sisters in an invocation.

Oath of the Martyr

Preparations are made to take the oath of the Martyr.

Blanche Laments

Having run away from the order, Blanche laments her decision in the ruins of her family's home.

Imprisonment

Contained in a prison and sentenced to death, the Order of the Carmelites prays.

Revolution

The citizens of the city under revolution gathers in the square to witness the execution of the order.

Preparation

The sisters of the Order are led in to their final moments.

Execution

Singing and praying, the sisters step out into the city square to be executed.

Execution

Singing and praying, the sisters step out into the city square to be executed.