DomStufen-Festspiele in Erfurt 1998
Theseus is preparing for his wedding celebration with Hippolyta, the defeated Queen of the Amazons. According to ancient custom, the festivities are to take place under the new moon. A masque transforms the scene into an enchanted forest – the realm of King Oberon and his queen, Titania, who are locked in bitter conflict. Their quarrel throws the natural world into chaos, causing all the seasons to arise at once and blend into one another. A magical dance of woodland spirits, fairies, and mischievous sprites begins.
Oberon, seeking to humble Titania, sends his servant Puck to fetch a magic potion. When applied to the eyes of a sleeping person, it causes them to fall madly in love with the first creature they see upon waking. This enchantment also befalls a group of humble craftsmen rehearsing a tragic comedy – Pyramus and Thisbe – which they intend to perform for the royal couple on their wedding day. Puck mischievously gives their leader the head of a donkey, and Titania, under the spell, falls hopelessly in love with him.
As night fades, the enchantment lifts. Oberon and Titania are reconciled. The craftsmen abandon their final rehearsal and rush to the palace for the wedding of Theseus and Hippolyta. Hymen, the god of marriage, is solemnly invoked to bless the union. With music, dancing, merriment, and the performance of Pyramus and Thisbe, the playful and light-hearted tale reaches its joyful conclusion.
Premiere / July 18, 1998