The most famous lovers ever: virtually mythical figures, Romeo and Juliette from Shakespeare’s eponymous drama have dominated world literature ever since its premiere in 1597. Among the many musical settings of the work, Charles Gounod’s Roméo et Juliette is one of the most performed. It was a triumphant success already at its premiere as part of the 1867 Paris Exposition. Gounod focuses particularly on the emotional life of the two lovers, for whom he composes no fewer than four love duets. At the same time, he also explores the social context of their forbidden love in the form of powerful choral tableaux and a large fight scene between the enemy families. In this production, director Mariame Clément will place the focus on the youth of the title characters, presenting them not as an exaggerated ideal of a couple, but as young people of today who find their way to another despite all odds.

Roméo et Juliette

Bebelplatz

Mozart and his librettist, and kindred spirit, Lorenzo da Ponte’s third opera revolves around six people. The lives of two couples are thrown into confusion in the space of 24 hours: Guglielmo and Ferrando are persuaded to make a bet with cynical Don Alfonso about their lovers’ Fiordiligi and Dorabella’s fidelity. Don Alfonso’s convinced that, with their maid Despina's help, he can prove both sisters are fickle. The young men dress up as foreigners, to seduce their best friend’s lovers. Feigned and real emotions start getting all mixed up. The »wrong« couples even celebrate a sham double wedding, before the sisters discover their husbands' true identities. All six draw seemingly happy and conciliatory conclusions, but the laughter sticks in their throats. Can things return to how they were? Which feelings were and are real anyway?

EPSG:4326

Così fan tutte

Oper Frankfurt

Very useful and informative introductory talks about the next new production - during which a singer, or singers, from the cast sing something from the opera in question. These are held in German but English is sometimes spoken as well, as not all the artists involved speak German.

Opera Extra

Le nozze di Figaro

Glyndebourne

A festive and delightful opera in a critically acclaimed and vividly staged production from Glyndebourne Festival Opera.

The old should not meddle in the affairs of the young—this is the moral of Don Pasquale, Donizetti’s witty and exuberant comedy, which satirises arranged marriages and celebrates youthful, genuine love.

Mariame Clément

Events

Upcoming events

Sep 21, 2025 - Jan 17, 2026

Così fan tutte · Oper Frankfurt

Feb 27 - Apr 30, 2026

Don Pasquale · Royal Danish Opera

Past events

Oct 26 - Nov 6, 2025

Roméo et Juliette · Staatsoper Berlin

Sep 21, 2025 - Jan 17, 2026

Così fan tutte · Oper Frankfurt

About

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