Stravinsky: The Rake's Progress Ending Explained: Stravinsky's masterwork The Rake's Progress, created for La Fenice in Venice in 1951, is based on a libretto by W. Directed by Robert Lepage, this 2007 music film stars Andrew Kennedy (Tom Rakewell), alongside Laura Claycomb as Anne Trulove, William Shimell as Nick Shadow, Dagmar Pecková as Baba the Turk. Rated 0/10, the conclusion has sparked discussion among viewers.

What Happens at the End of Stravinsky: The Rake's Progress?

Stravinsky's masterwork The Rake's Progress, created for La Fenice in Venice in 1951, is based on a libretto by W. H. Auden and Chester Kallman, inspired by a series of 18th century prints by William Hogarth. This amazing production from La Monnaie De Munt jazzifies the setting by replacing Hogarth's sin city, London, with 1950s Las Vegas, turning it into a glittering, cinematic gallery of tableaux vivants inspired by the early days of television. Staged by one of the most visionary theatre directors of our age, the Québécois Robert Lepage, the neo-classical morality tale truly becomes a grand spectacle. Lepage's visual imagination works its magic superbly, while Kazushi Ono's energetic musical direction drives the sparkling ensemble to exhilarating heights. Recorded in High Definition and true surround sound.

Robert Lepage's narrative builds toward a resolution centered on Andrew Kennedy (Tom Rakewell)'s journey. Auden and Chester Kallman, inspired by a series of 18th century prints by William Hogarth.

How Does Andrew Kennedy (Tom Rakewell)'s Story End?

  • Andrew Kennedy: Andrew Kennedy's storyline wraps up in the final act, though some viewers have found the resolution more ambiguous than expected.
  • Laura Claycomb (Anne Trulove): Laura Claycomb's role in the climax proves pivotal to how the central conflict resolves.
  • William Shimell (Nick Shadow): William Shimell's character undergoes a significant shift in the final act.

Is Stravinsky: The Rake's Progress Based on a True Story?

Yes — Stravinsky: The Rake's Progress draws from real events. The ending reflects documented outcomes, though Robert Lepage has taken creative liberties in dramatizing specific scenes for cinematic impact.

What Does the Ending of Stravinsky: The Rake's Progress Mean?

The ending of Stravinsky: The Rake's Progress brings the narrative to a close, though viewer reception has been mixed. The resolution of Andrew Kennedy's story may not satisfy all audiences.