The “Galant Feasts” premiere, a performance blending historical research with modern interpretation, took place on June 8 at the Palma society mansion. The production, presented by the “Monsieur Antierlusa Theater,” seeks to capture the essence of 18th-century stage art while remaining accessible to contemporary audiences.

The theater group aims to recreate the synthesis of arts—music, singing, acting, and dance—characteristic of the era, drawing inspiration from French painters like Watteau and the tradition of baroque vaudeville. The performance features actors in lavish costumes, baroque music, and pantomime to tell a story of idealized worlds and courtly love.

“Monsieur Antierlusa Theater,” founded in 2022, also has collaborations with the State Hermitage Museum. The play incorporates mythological and allegorical elements, with characters representing figures like Apollo, Night, and Pomona. A program is provided to help viewers understand the references, but audiences are encouraged to draw their own conclusions.

The play emphasizes physical expression and utilizes arias from baroque operas and dances to convey emotions. The creators consider the production a form of research, striving for authenticity in technique, including performing arias in period-accurate French and using Baroque sign language. The orchestra consists of instruments typical of the Baroque era, such as the harpsichord and viola da gamba, using gut strings for a softer sound.

Finding original sheet music for the performance required obtaining copies from museums and private collections. The decorations and costumes are inspired by 18th-century paintings, although the production maintains a minimalistic approach due to budget constraints. While future performances on a theater stage are uncertain, the “Monsieur Antierlusa Theater” intends to present the play in shorter versions at festivals and intimate gatherings.