Cast & Characters

The Cast

Conductor: Jesús López-Cobos
Thaïs: Renée Fleming
Nicias: Michael Schade
Athanaël: Thomas Hampson
Palémon: Alain Vernhes

The Characters

Thaïs (soprano): A courtesan, Thaïs is a lady of pleasure who lives in luxury. She relies solely on her beauty, but after meeting Athanaël, searches for a deeper meaning out of life.

Nicias (tenor): An old friend in Athanaël’s home town or Alexandria, Nicias welcomes Athanaël into his home and aids Athanaël in his dealing with Thaïs. Despite his strong feelings for her, Nicias helps Thaïs and Athanaël depart from Alexandria.

Athanaël (baritone): Athanaël is a young and veracious Cenobite monk. After having visions of the courtesan Thaïs, he is determined to convert her to Christianity. Athanaël’s unwavering devotion to God and strong moral fiber becomes challenged by his increasing captivation by Thaïs, yet he doesn’t realize it until it’s too late.

Palémon (bass): The senior monk among the Cenobite monks at Athanaël’s monastery. He tries to guide Athanaël in the right direction, but Athanaël does not heed his warnings.