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The Met — Der Rosenkavalier
This production of Strauss’s most sumptuous work by director Nathaniel Merrill and designer Robert O’Hearn is almost as beloved as the opera itself. It perfectly captures the glittering never-land of rococco Vienna the way the Viennese—and the rest of the world—wish it had been, and it’s the ideal setting for an adult comedy of love and errors. Susan Graham is the aristocratic young Octavian, torn between two women: Renée Fleming as the Marschallin, the mature woman who understands that one day Octavian must leave her; and Christine Schäfer as Sophie, the young girl who unexpectedly captures his heart. Kristinn Sigmundsson is the lecherous Baron Ochs who sets the whirling plot in motion, and Edo de Waart conducts.
Insights
Plot Summary
Set in Vienna in the 18th century, Richard Strauss's "Der Rosenkavalier" follows the bittersweet story of an aging princess (Marschallin) who is involved with a younger lover, Octavian. When Octavian is tasked with delivering a silver rose to Sophie, the daughter of a wealthy parvenu, he falls instantly in love with her. This leads to a complex and comedic entanglement of love, loss, and societal conventions, as Octavian navigates his feelings and the Marschallin gracefully relinquishes him.
Critical Reception
The Met's 2010 production of 'Der Rosenkavalier,' directed by Richard Eyre, was widely praised for its lavish staging, intelligent direction, and superb vocal performances. Critics lauded Renée Fleming's portrayal of the Marschallin and Elīna Garanča's charismatic Octavian. The opera's blend of comedy and pathos was effectively conveyed, making it a standout event in the Met's season.
What Reviewers Say
Renowned for its sumptuous visual design and sophisticated direction.
Praised for stellar vocal performances, particularly from Renée Fleming and Elīna Garanča.
Effectively captures the opera's blend of humor, romance, and emotional depth.
Google audience: Audience reception for this production was overwhelmingly positive, with viewers frequently highlighting the beauty of the staging and the power of the singing. Many expressed appreciation for the detailed historical setting and the emotional resonance of the story.
Fun Fact
The role of Octavian is traditionally sung by a mezzo-soprano, and Elīna Garanča's performance in this production was celebrated for its combination of vocal agility and dramatic presence, making the character's youthful impetuosity and burgeoning maturity utterly convincing.
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