Chrysoline Dupont's first season opens with a surprise

Chrysoline Dupont, the new director of the Opéra national du Rhin, faced an unexpected challenge on the opening night of her first season. Julie Roset, originally cast to play Zerbinette, had to withdraw due to an unforeseen situation, leaving the role uncast just hours before the performance.

Ilia Staple steps in at short notice

Ilia Staple, who was rehearsing the role of the Queen of the Night in Vienna, agreed to fly to Germany at the last minute. She arrived in Strasbourg just an hour before the show and performed the role of Zerbinette while Julie Roset mimed the part from the stage.

The set design evokes a Mediterranean villa

The production, directed by Myriam Marzouki, is set in a luxurious Mediterranean villa with large glass doors and a view of a bay. The setting is visually striking and creates a strong visual contrast with the original Viennese context of the opera.

The setting shifts to reflect a darker tone

After the intermission, the setting transforms into a more somber environment. The villa is now overgrown and partially destroyed, revealing the aftermath of the events in the first act. This change in setting adds depth and emotional weight to the performance.

The production emphasizes the inner lives of the characters

The staging focuses on the personal struggles and emotions of the characters. The depressed Primadonna reads Anna Karenina and nearly takes her own life, with costumes and decor reminiscent of the 1960s. This approach brings the audience closer to the characters' inner worlds.

Ilia Staple delivers a standout performance

Ilia Staple's portrayal of Zerbinette is particularly noteworthy. Her vocal performance is both technically impressive and emotionally moving, especially in her aria "Grossmächtige Prinzessin," which showcases her range and sensitivity.

Supporting cast brings depth and energy to the production

Other performers, including Eugénie Joneau as the Primadonna and Dorottya Lang as the Composer, deliver strong performances. The ensemble work is cohesive, with notable contributions from the choreography and the supporting cast, enhancing the overall experience.

The orchestra elevates the production

The Orchestre national de Mulhouse, conducted by Christoph Koncz, delivers a rich and nuanced performance. The orchestra's ability to highlight the complexity of the score adds to the evening's musical excellence, making the production a memorable experience for the audience.