Première Ariadne auf Naxos

In this opera, we witness a clash between opera makers and comedians, between 'elite' classical musicians and entertainment creators. Due to circumstances, they must perform a show together, and voilà: the evening becomes a success! The combination of seemingly 'high' and 'low' art proves to be a hit.

The unifying power of music is irresistible to everyone. In the lead roles, internationally renowned Dutch soprano Annemarie Kremer and acclaimed Swedish tenor Daniel Frank shine.

The Story

Ariadne auf Naxos is a tragicomic opera that features a "play within a play." The story takes place in the home of a wealthy man, where a lavish party is being feverishly prepared. It involves a serious opera based on the myth of Ariadne, a farce in a burlesque setting, and fireworks as the grand finale. When, due to time constraints and at the request of the host, the opera and the farce must be combined to avoid jeopardizing the fireworks display, chaos ensues! We witness a spark-filled clash between 'high' and 'low' art, and a perfect example of the adage, "He who pays the piper calls the tune."

Who is Sofia Jupither

Sofia is one of the leading directors in Scandinavia. Her recent productions include a new Tristan und Isolde in Copenhagen, Rigoletto in Stockholm, and Turandot in Helsinki. Her production of Salomé with Nina Stemme in the title role was her opera debut in 2013, and she now returns to Richard Strauss for her first Ariadne auf Naxos with us. She has emerged as one of the most interesting opera directors of the moment, and this will be her Dutch debut.