Daphne

Дафна

Richard Strauss’ opera Daphne, subtitled “bucolic tragedy in one act”, features lush, complex orchestrations and employs a large orchestra to convey its musical themes. The vocal writing is often highly virtuosic, showcasing the abilities of the singers in the lead roles.

With Vera-Lotte Boecker – crowned “Singer of the year”, the prestigious Opernwelt Critics Award – he has found “an ideal Daphne, embodying both the youthful and the fated side of her character” (Bachtrack.com).

“Thomas Guggeis conducted the admirable Staatskapelle Berlin with infinite delicacy and clarity” (La Libre Belgique).

“Strong images that will have an impact for a long time to come.” (Süddeutsche Zeitung).

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Actors

Daphne

Vera-Lotte Boecker

Peneios

René Pape

Gaea

Anna Kissjudit

Leukippos

Magnus Dietrich

Apollo

Pavel Černoch

Crew

Libretto

Joseph Gregor

Stage Director, Sets, Costumes & Lighting

Romeo Castellucci

Conductor

Thomas Guggeis

About

Daphne lives in a world that is foreign to her. She is the embodiment of nature and finds human behaviour and desire alien. Apollo and Leucippus, both of whom desire Daphne, attend the feast of Dionysus. Leucippus puts his plan into action: Daphne abandons herself to the celebrations. Too late, Apollo, under Leucippus’ spell, realises he has acted against his divine destiny and Daphne’s nature.

»Daphne« is one of Richard Strauss’ last operas. The story is based on a tale from ancient mythology and was passed down by Ovid and Plutarch, among others. It has frequently appeared as a theme in art, music and literature. In Richard Strauss’ »Daphne«, symphonic music and lyrical passages in the style of chamber music are combined to create an impressive musical drama. Today, »Daphne« is one of the composer’s rarely performed works. This new staging is directed by Romeo Castellucci, whose works are marked by a powerful visual language in which music, light and visual arts blend.