The Magic Flute

A children's tale for some, a profound meditation on life and death for others, Mozart's last opera is unquestionably a landmark achievement in which he expressed his deep spiritual beliefs. In it the chief concerns of the Enlightenment and the entire 18th century converge: education, morality, religion, culture, nature, and many more.

This much lauded production by Simon McBurney was made in partnership with the cutting-edge theatrical company Complicité. It tells the fantastical story of Prince Tamino's search for his beloved Pamina amid the conflict between two opposing powers: Sarastro (representing light and truth) and the Queen of Night (darkness and deceit).

The opera was an instant success from the day of the premiere. At the heart of the enchanting tale lies a lost paradise of wisdom and knowledge which highlights the need to strike a new balance founded on universal values and virtues. McBurney recreates the fable skilfully and boldly, placing the singers in a mysterious, magical world peopled by actors. The live sound effects, the animation, the on-the-spot drawing and the orchestra which plays from the stage make this a unique interpretation, a present-day journey through the original pantomime atmosphere to capture the intrinsically popular spirit of the work.

In this, his eagerly awaited first performance of Die Zauberflöte, Gustavo Dudamel will offer us a chance to explore the infinite details of the colossal, kaleidoscopic score, making each performance a historic event.