William Tell: The Enduring Legacy of a Hero Myth

When:
Tuesday, Sep 22, 2026 6:00p -
7:30p

Where:
French Library / Alliance Française of Boston & Cambridge
53 Marlborough St.
Boston, MA 02116

EventScheduled OfflineEventAttendanceMode

Admission:
$22 members $28 Non-members

Hosted by:
...
frenchlibraryboston French Library

Categories:
History

Event website:
https://frenchlibrary.org/events/william-tell-2026/

Before Boston Lyric Opera brings Rossini's epic masterpiece to the stage, discover the remarkable story behind one of history's most enduring heroes.


Why did a medieval Swiss legend become one of Europe's most powerful symbols of freedom? How do hero myths continue to shape nations, cultures, and political ideals?


Join Esther Nelson, former General and Artistic Director of Boston Lyric Opera, for an engaging exploration of William Tell, placing the legendary Swiss archer within the broader tradition of heroic legends that have inspired societies across centuries. From the medieval origins of the Tell legend to Friedrich Schiller's celebrated drama and Rossini's monumental opera, discover how each generation has reimagined Tell to reflect its own hopes, fears, and political aspirations.


History and legend will then give way to music, with live performances by Boston Lyric Opera artists offering a special introduction to Rossini’s soaring score, just days before the company’s production opens in Boston.


Morgan Beckford, Director of Community & Learning at Boston Lyric Opera, will moderate the conversation with Esther and invite questions from the audience.


The presentation will be followed by a Q&A with the audience, and a reception with light refreshments.


Continue the experience at the opera: Boston Lyric Opera presents William Tell at the Emerson Colonial Theatre, September 25–October 4, 2026. Reserve your tickets for William Tell

Share this event

Add to:

Reddit
09/22/2026 18:00:00 09/22/2026 19:30:00 America/New_York William Tell: The Enduring Legacy of a Hero Myth <p>Before Boston Lyric Opera brings Rossini's epic masterpiece to the stage, discover the remarkable story behind one of history's most enduring heroes.</p><p><br></p><p><strong>Why did a medieval ...

https://www.thebostoncalendar.com/events/william-tell-the-enduring-legacy-of-a-hero-myth French Library / Alliance Française of Boston & Cambridge, Boston, MA 02116 false MM/DD/YYYY

Sponsored events