© In höchsten Tönen! Der Rosenkavalier: Oper in der Krypta
Vienna, Peterskirche — Krypta
About the Event
“Der Rosenkavalier” by Richard Strauss is a feast for the senses:
With an ideal ensemble and entirely in the spirit of Strauss, you experience his sparkling comedy about time, love and transience with a fine sense of the moment and a large portion of humor.
Sparkling Viennese charm, deeply felt melancholy, opulent music and a touch of nostalgia make this opera an unforgettable experience.
A masterful blend of comedy and emotion is performed in an original chamber music version in the atmospheric crypt of St. Peter's Church.
Established as Austria's smallest opera theater, the performances in the KRYPTA captivate with their directness, high quality and unusual venue. Located deep beneath St. Peter's Church in Vienna, the intimate hall offers a personal experience that lasts a long time.
The KRYPTA is pleasantly warm at any time of year.
Storyline:
“Der Rosenkavalier” by Richard Strauss (libretto by Hugo von Hofmannsthal) is a comedy with serious undertones, set in 18th century Vienna.
First act
The opera begins in the bedroom of Princess Werdenberg, the so‐called Marschallin, who is having a passionate affair with the young Count Octavian. The morning after a night together, they are surprised by the sudden visit of Baron Ochs auf Lerchenau, a rude relative of the Marschallin. To avoid being discovered, Octavian hastily disguises himself as the maid “Mariandel”. Baron Ochs, who is looking for a wealthy bride, announces that he wants to marry Sophie, the daughter of the newly rich Mr. Faninal. As it is customary for a young nobleman to bring the silver rose to the bride as the Rosenkavalier, the Marschallin suggests Octavian for this task. After the visit, the Marschallin remains alone and reflects thoughtfully on the transience of time and her youth — and also on the inevitable separation from Octavian.
Act Two
A grand reception is being prepared at Faninal's house, as Octavian makes a ceremonial appearance as the Rosenkavalier to present Sophie with the silver rose. In a tender, intimate moment, the two immediately fall in love. When Sophie meets Baron Ochs shortly afterwards, she is appalled by his rudeness and complacency. She resolutely declares that she does not want to marry him. An argument breaks out between Octavian and Ochs, which escalates when Octavian threatens the baron with a sword. Octavian devises a plan to save Sophie from this forced marriage: he wants to involve Ochs in a compromising situation and thus thwart his marriage plans. Octavian in his role as “Mariandel” is once again to serve as bait.
Act Three
The third act takes place in an inn where Octavian, disguised as Mariandel, has arranged a secret meeting with Baron Ochs. This is where the clever intrigue begins: Ochs is beset by strange figures — supposed husbands, children and policemen — who accuse him of fornication. In the escalating confusion, Ochs loses control and his composure. Finally, the Marschallin appears, immediately recognizes the game and helps to clarify the situation. With dignity and inner greatness, she withdraws and lets Octavian live out his new love. In the end, the young couple Octavian and Sophie remain happily united, while the Marschallin resigns herself to the passage of time — in quiet melancholy, but with composure.
Practical Information
The 'Opera in the Crypt' series is a unique form of presenting opera at its very essence. With piano accompaniment, talented singers in costumes perform the works in the exceptional, intimate atmosphere of the crypt under St. Peter's Church. Through the short distance between audience and musicians you can experience opera in a way you have never heard or seen it before.
Program
- Richard Strauss – Der Rosenkavalier
Cast / Production
Feldmarschallin Fürstin Werdenberg Katharina Jing An Gebauer
Baron Ochs auf Lerchenau Ivaylo Guberov
Octavian Viktoria McConnell
Herr von Faninal Florian Pejrimovsky
Sophie Alice Waginger
Jungfer Marianne Leitmetzerin Stimme Katharina J. A. Gebauer/D. Stanglmayr
Valzacchi Paul Skalicki
Singer & Innkeeper Hans‐Jörg Gaugelhofer
Annina Alexandra Aidonopoulou
Notary Wolfgang Fritzsche
Kinderchor In höchsten Tönen!
Directed by Katharina J. A. Gebauer
Musical direction/piano Wolfgang Fritzsche
Violoncello Ursula Hielscher
Production/Lighting Dorothee Stanglmayr
Address
Peterskirche, Petersplatz, Vienna, Austria — Google Maps
