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Hindemith: Sancta Susanna
Klementia, who has been a nun for several years, is troubled by an apparition of Saint Susanna. The latter, performed by Anna Caterina Antonacci, lifts the veil on a carnal world she finds disturbing. Encouraged to confide by this awakening, Klementia recounts the passion of a young girl in the convent who many years before had stripped naked and embraced the body of Christ on the Cross. Darkness and light, life and death, body and soul all struggle and dialogue in this short, smouldering work in which the biblical figure of Susanna takes on an unparalleled psychological dimension.
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Plot Summary
This production of Paul Hindemith's opera 'Sancta Susanna' explores themes of religious repression and forbidden desire within a convent. The opera centers on Susanna, a novice nun tormented by visions and carnal urges, which lead to her eventual downfall. The dark, psychological narrative unfolds against a backdrop of strict monastic rules and inner turmoil.
Critical Reception
The 2016 production of 'Sancta Susanna' by Christoph Schlingensief received critical attention for its provocative staging and compelling performances. Reviewers noted the intense emotionality and the challenging nature of the opera itself, praising the production's ability to bring Hindemith's complex score and libretto to life. While some found the subject matter disturbing, the overall reception highlighted the artistic merit and the skillful execution of a difficult work.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its intense emotional depth and the powerful performances of the cast.
Acknowledged for its provocative and challenging exploration of religious and psychological themes.
Commended for the skillful staging and musical direction of Hindemith's demanding score.
Google audience: Information regarding specific Google user reviews and ratings for this production is not readily available.
Fun Fact
Christoph Schlingensief, the director of this production, was a renowned German artist, filmmaker, and theater director known for his often controversial and boundary-pushing work.
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