This Wagner opera is rarely performed because of the scandals that engulfed the Magdeburg Theatre when it was performed in 1836 under the title The Novice of Palermo, and became known as a cursed opera from which the composer had to distance himself. Wagner's adaptation of the story reflects the rebellious mood of a Revolutionary Germany, vindicating sensual love and attack the fanatical repression of sexuality by a puritanical and hypocritical authority. As the prose says, "Shame to him whose cruel striking/Kills for faults of his own liking!". One of the most extraordinary musicals based on a text by Shakespeare, especially worthy of a new performance as it is four hundred years since the death of the Bard.
Released: Feb 19, 2016
Runtime: 160 minutes
Genre: Music
Stars: Christopher Maltman, Peter Lodahl, Ilker Arcayürek, David Alegret, David Jerusalem, Manuela Uhl
Crew: William Shakespeare (Original Story), Coro del Teatro Real (Musician), Orquesta Titulares del Teatro Real (Musician), Ivor Bolton (Music Director), Kasper Holten (Stage Director), Steffen Aarfing (Set Designer)