Opera North: The Magic Flute at The Lowry
Johnny James, Managing Editor
Opera North presents a vibrant new production of Mozart’s evergreen opera The Magic Flute, to be performed at The Lowry.
The Magic Flute premiered at Vienna’s Schikaneder’s theatre in 1791, two months before Mozart’s premature death. One of his best-loved operas, it features some truly wonderful music. The famously difficult ‘Queen of the Night’ aria, ‘Der Hölle Rache kocht in meinem Herzen’, is a particular thrill. First performed by Mozart’s sister-in-law Josepha Hofer, it’s reserved for only the most daring sopranos, largely on account of its exceedingly high notes.
The Magic Flute explores themes of coming of age, finding one’s way in the world and learning to love. Its fairy-tale story follows the adventures of Prince Tamino and the bird-catcher Papageno on their quest to rescue Pamina, daughter of the Queen of the Night held captive by the Priest of the Sun. This quest soon becomes a thrilling journey of discovery wherein nothing – not even Day and Night – is quite as it first appears.
Opera North’s vivid new production of the opera is directed by James Brining (Artistic Director of Leeds Playhouse) and features an impressive international cast. South African soprano Vuvu Mpofu will make her UK debut as Pamina, Chinese-Australian tenor Kang Wang will play Tamino, Samantha Hay will take on the challenging role of Queen of the Night, and Gavan Ring will appear as Papegeno the bird-catcher. Conducting duties, meanwhile, will be handled by the talented Robert Howarth.
Restlessly hard-working and consistently good, Opera North is sure to present a thrilling version of Mozart’s celebrated work. An old favourite injected with new life, The Magic Flute at The Lowry promises to be a highlight of the spring season. Don’t miss it!
