Opera in three acts, a prologue and an epilogue, by Jacques Offenbach (1819-1880), with a libretto in French by Jules Barbier (1825-1901), based on a work that Barbier himself and Michel Carré (1821-1872) had written based on stories by E.T.A. Hoffmann (1776-1822).  Approximate duration: 2 h 45 min  Recommended for those over 15 years old.  The young poet Hoffmann, accompanied by Nicklausse, his alter ego and confidant, is in a tavern next to the theatre where Mozart's Don Giovanni is being performed. During the opera's intermission, some diners arrive at the bar who, upon seeing the poet, encourage him to sing and tell them the story of his famous love affairs. Hoffmann finally gives in and shares with them the stories of Olympia, Antonia and Giulietta. They, absorbed in the poet's stories, remain in the tavern, forgetting about the opera performance.

The Tales of Hoffman - National Opera Company (INBAL)

A dull man is obsessed with a woman who, fed up with him, decides to end their affair. Meanwhile, his wife struggles with the decision to divorce. In his desperation, he seeks solace from a friend, who harbors resentment over the wife's preference for the man. This friend ultimately confronts him with the harsh reality of his life.