Wagner’s Ring Cycle is famous for taking a notoriously long time to perform. German comedian and actor Loriot solved the problem by creating his own version entitled »Der Ring an einem Abend« (Wagner’s Ring in One Evening). This superbly entertaining summary of all four operas is packed with charm, humour and razor-sharp wit. The complex plot and epic tale of gods, heroes and giants is easy to follow with Loriot’s comical characters, slapstick and amusingly absurd dialogues (in German). Teasing, mocking and farcical but never disrespectful of the original, this adaptation offers a delightful and accessible way for audiences to engage with the Ring Cycle that appeals to opera newbies and Wagner fans alike. Siegfried’s story will be narrated by the well-known actor Jan Josef Liefers as he leads us effortlessly and mischievously through the chaotic events of this mythical world. It wouldn’t be an opera without musical highlights from »Das Rheingold«, »Die Walküre«, »Siegfried« and »Götterdämmerung«, which is provided by the Weimar Staatskapelle and an excellent ensemble of singers. It promises to be a fun evening of instant opera.
PERFORMERS
Staatskapelle Weimar orchestra
Jan Josef Liefers recitation
Thomas Mohr tenor
Bjørn Waag baritone
Sorin Coliban bass
Cornel Frey tenor
Aris Argiris baritone
Sonja Šarić soprano
Brit-Tone Müllertz soprano
Ilona Revolskaya soprano
Bernadett Fodor mezzo-soprano
Manuela Leonhartsberger mezzo-soprano
Christina Sidak mezzo-soprano
Heiko Mathias Förster conductor
PROGRAM
»Der Ring an einem Abend«
Music by Richard Wagner and texts by Loriot
