2023-12-03 23:13:31
In the latest production by the Landestheater Niederbayern in the former prince-bishop’s opera house in Passau, the title character in the baroque opera “Xerxes” was not seen as a historical hero, but as an eccentric choleric who causes all kinds of confusion with his feelings and behavior. Grotesque and comedic elements predominate in the production by Swiss director Urs Häberli. The plot takes place in the present and takes a turbulent course with love, jealousy, hatred and suspicion across the seven people, most of whom are related to each other. In keeping with the baroque style, male roles – previously played by castrati – are now played by women. Sabine Noack shone in the title role, as did all the other protagonists – Sarah-Lena Winterberg (Arsamene), Tina Penttinen (Amastre), Henrike Hennoch (Romilda), Emily Fultz (Atalanta), Heeyun Choi (Ariodate) and Miroslav Stricevic (Elviro) — made the performance an impressive stage experience with high-quality singing and convincing performances.
The Italian guest conductor Fabio Cerroni made Handel’s score shine in transparent, stylish and lively sound images, while the stage and costumes by Marcel Zaba underlined the character of a modern comedy, which was very well received by the audience.
Deadline: 29. 12.; 19./20.1. 2024
By Rudolf Lessky
1701647028
#Xerxes #eccentric #choleric
