TITUS

In 2024 the first class to graduate from the Volksoper’s Opera Studio chose Cosi fan tutti as their graduation piece. Now the second generation of this young ensemble take to the stage at Das MuTh in the Augarten with another classic of the repertoire. This new chamber version, arranged by Brazilian composer Ricardo Vendramin Ross (b. 1995),  is directed by Maurice Lenhard, Artistic Director of the Opera Studio. He highlights the close similarities between Mozart’s opera and current geopolitical dynamics, and casts the piece as a contemporary political thriller. In this setting, the final deed of mercy from which Tito’s titular clemency (“clemenza”) derives is based is not an act of humanity, but an instrument of control – an official lie which encourages loyalty and neutralizes resistance. It creates an impression of stability, whereas in truth Tito’s cold, calculating mind is focused on consolidating his power. In a world flooded with media images, the two couples — Vitellia and Sesto, and Servilia and Annio — become enmeshed in a ruthless system of intrigue, corruption, and murder … for power and powerlessness lie dangerously close to each other, and even mercy can be weaponised.

The dramaturge Magdalena Hoisbauer will present an introduction to the piece, starting half an hour before each performance. This introductory talk is free of charge.

The Opera Studio is supported by Martin Schlaff.
Opera Studio Partner: Ibanez Atkinson Fundacion.

Tickets can only be purchased from Volksoper Wien. 

Presented by: Volksoper Wien