Details

An operatic divertissement to be performed in an abridged version of Moliere's comedy Le Bourgeois Gentilhomme. Both pignant and comic, Ariadne auf Naxos is an opera within an opera. The curtain opens on a Viennese salon where preparations are being made for a performance of an opera. There is consternation when the Major Domo (Chied Butler) announces that due to time pressure, a harlequin troupe will be performing comedy during the opera itself. The conflicting scenarios and contrasting characters reveal what happens when stand-up comedy meets Greek tragedy and music hall meets high art. Sung in German with English surtitles. Running time: approx. 3hrs (inclu one interval)

Cast/Performers

Karita Mattila (Prima Donna / Ariadne), Roberto Sacca (Tenor / Bacchus), Jane Archibald (Zerbinetta), Ruxandra Donose (Composer), Markus Werba (Harlequin), Wynne Evans (Scaramuccio), Paul Schweinester (Brighella), Jeremy White (Truffaldino), Sofia Fomina (Naiad), Karen Cargill (Dryad), Kiandra Howarth (Echo), Thomas Ellen (Music Master), Ed Lyon (Dancing Master), Ashley Riches (Wig Maker), Jihoon Kim (Lackey), David Butt Philip (Officer), Christoph Quest (Major Domo)

Creatives/Company

Music: Strauss
Lyrics: Hofmannsthal
Producer: Royal Opera House
Conductor: Antonio Pappano
Director: Christof Loy
Design: Herbert Murauer
Lighting: Jennifer Tipton
Choreographer: Beate Vollack
Company: Orchestra of the Royal Opera House