It's one of those shows that leaves you feeling like you're not quite the same person when you leave as you were when you arrived. Certainly, 7 minutes, the new production for the 2024/2025 season at Opéra de Lyon, is part of this category. This opera by Giorgio Battistelli is based on the play 7 Minuti by Stefano Massini, published in 2018. It's a story with a resounding success, as it was also adapted into a film by Michele Placido the same year. Let's shine a light on this work that is as real as it is moving, which will be performed in Italian with French surtitles from March 15 to 29.
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7 minutes rehearsals © Jean-Louis Fernandez
The 7 minutes that make all the difference
There are eleven. Eleven workers at the Pichard and Roche textile factory, which has just been bought by a multinational company. They are all waiting for Blanche, their spokesperson, to come back and tell them what will happen to them. One condition has been set: there will be no closure and no layoffs, but the workers will have to cut 7 minutes from their fifteen-minute break. While Blanche sees this compromise as the start of a slippery slope and is ready to refuse, the other women feel ready to accept. Drawing on their personal stories, the eleven employees engage in a debate to find a resolution to this question. Will they accept and relieve themselves of a burden, or will they...resist the pressure through their refusal?
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7 minutes rehearsals © Jean-Louis Fernandez
A show inspired by a true story
This opera is presented in the form of a closed setting that highlights the pressure felt by these eleven factory workers. Directed by Pauline Bayle, the show unfolds through 30 absolutely captivating scenes spread over three acts. In just 2 hours, each of the eleven women is given the opportunity to share their stories, perspectives, and social and professional experiences through music.
Based on a true story, that of the workers from the Lejaby lingerie factory in Yssingeaux, Haute-Loire, Giorgio Battistelli aimed to reflect on stage the potential pitfalls of the capitalist system when commodification...
Work becomes a form of tool of domination and violence. It's a way to show that the opera is not just a place for entertainment, but that on its stage, important reflections on themes and issues that shape our societies can take place. A must-see show at the start of this year !
7 minutes
Opéra de Lyon
Place de la Comédie – Lyon 3e
On March 15, 18, 21, 26, and 29 at 8 PM
On March 23 at 4 PM
More info and reservations
