Bohemian Paris serves as both the setting and the inspiration for Louise, Gustave Charpentier’s ode to freedom and tempestuous young love. Often referred to as the French version of La bohème, the story poignantly illuminates the age-old conflict between romantic love and filial loyalty. With more than 30 colorful characters, the opera offers notably beautiful music (foreshadowing the impressionism of Debussy) and lavish sentiment as well as an undercurrent of danger.