King Ouf I eagerly anticipates his peculiar birthday ritual each year: a random execution. This year, he chooses the audacious peddler Lazuli. But the royal astrologer Siroco has a foreboding message: the fates of Ouf and Lazuli are inextricably linked. If Lazuli dies, the king dies. Instead of a gruesome end, Lazuli suddenly finds a life full of luxury, privileges – and even a royal marriage! 

This absurd twist lies at the core of L’Étoile, a sparkling and socially critical opera by Emmanuel Chabrier. His unique style – a mix of impressionistic hues, sharp satire, and playful absurdism – transforms L’Étoile into an Opéra Bouffe that makes you both laugh and think. 

Director Matthew Eberhardt brings this irresistible comedy to life, alongside the orchestra Philzuid conducted by Nicolas Krüger. Expect musical surprises and brilliant scenes, such as a comical ‘tickle trio’ and a unique ‘sneeze aria’ – born from Chabrier's playful spirit.