Performing Siegmund: Charles Rousselière

Originally a blacksmith, Charles Rousselière was a Conservatoire-trained tenor. His illustrious career led him to sing not only in Paris, at both the Opéra and the Opéra-Comique, but also New York, Berlin, Milan and Buenos Aires. He was particularly known for his heroic roles such as Otello and Siegfried. Wagner roles were a staple of his repertoire, regularly performing in Lohengrin, Siegfried, and Parsifal. To the right are images of Rousselière in various Wagner roles. In the colorized photo Rousselière is dressed as Siegmund; this is the best photograph we have of him in full costume. A supplement to this is the drawing by Charles Bianchini of the costume, though he did not design it specifically for Rousselière like he did for Bréval.  Also included is a drawing of Rousselière as Siegfried in a 1904 production of the opera of the same name at the Paris Opéra. This means that this image came from the same opera company and season as the La Valkyrie that was transmitted.