The Royal Opera House will present the first UK revival of Tim Albery’s production of Wagner’s Tannhäuser, running from the 26th April to the 15th May.
Wagner’s opera follows the great singer Tannhäuser,who is now the lover of the Goddess Venus, but is now tired of life in the Venusberg. When he returns home he participates in a singing contest in which he reveals his life with Venus – much to the horror of those listening. His first love Elisabeth attempts to intercede on his behalf – but can Tannhäuser save his own soul?
As well as being directed by Tim Albery, the production will also include in its creative team designers Michael Lavine (sets) and Jon Morrell (costumes), choreography for the Venusberg scene by Jasmin Vardimon and lighting designed by David Finn.
The focus for this production of Wagner’s masterpiece is on the conflict right at the centre of the opera, the opposing pulls of the sensual and spiritual. Wagner’s music is brought to life with the help of conductor Hartmut Haenchen and the Royal Opera House Orchestra.
The cast for the production includes: German tenor Peter Seiffert in the title role, baritone Christian Gerhaher as Wolfram von Eschinbach and Danish bass Stephen Milling as Landgraf Herrmann. Tannhäuser’s two loves are sung by British soprano Emma Bell (Elisabeth) and French mezzo-soprano Sophie Koch (Venus). British tenor Ed Lyon makes his role debut as Walther von der Vogelweide and Austrian baritone Michael Kraus makes his Royal Opera debut singing the role of Bitcrolf. Australian tenor Jcttc Parker Young Artist Samuel Sakker and English bass Jeremy White also sing.
Tannhäuser runs at the Royal Opera House from the 26th April until the 15th May. To book tickets visit: Ticketmaster.co.uk, Discount Theatre.com, Theatre Tickets Direct.co.uk, Love Theatre.com, Theatre People.com and UK Tickets.co.uk.