Das Liebesverbot (2016)
Wagner's long-suppressed opera, adapted from Shakespeare's Measure for Measure, filmed live at Madrid's Teatro Real in a landmark 2016 production.
Das Liebesverbot - Movie Information
- Original Title: Das Liebesverbot
- Release Year: 2016
- Directed by: János Darvas
- Type: Movie
- Genres: Music
- Runtime: 2h 40m
- Original Language: English
- Production Companies: Opus Arte, Teatro Real de Madrid, TVE, EuroArts
- Production Countries: Spain
Das Liebesverbot - Plot
This Wagner opera is rarely performed because of the scandals that engulfed the Magdeburg Theatre when it was performed in 1836 under the title The Novice of Palermo, and became known as a cursed opera from which the composer had to distance himself. Wagner's adaptation of the story reflects the rebellious mood of a Revolutionary Germany, vindicating sensual love and attack the fanatical repression of sexuality by a puritanical and hypocritical authority. As the prose says, "Shame to him whose cruel striking/Kills for faults of his own liking!". One of the most extraordinary musicals based on a text by Shakespeare, especially worthy of a new performance as it is four hundred years since the death of the Bard.
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Das Liebesverbot - Cast & Crew
Director(s)
- János Darvas
Main Cast
- Christopher Maltman
- Peter Lodahl
- Ilker Arcayürek
- David Alegret
- David Jerusalem
- Manuela Uhl
- María Miró
- Ante Jerkunica
- Isaac Galán
- María Hinojosa
Writers
- Richard Wagner
Das Liebesverbot - FAQs
What is Das Liebesverbot based on?
Das Liebesverbot is Wagner's operatic adaptation of Shakespeare's Measure for Measure. Wagner transformed the play into a bold celebration of sensual love and a fierce critique of puritanical, hypocritical authority, reflecting the rebellious spirit of Revolutionary Germany in the 1830s.
Why is Das Liebesverbot considered a cursed opera?
The opera's premiere in Magdeburg in 1836, under the title The Novice of Palermo, was engulfed in scandal and chaos. The production collapsed so disastrously that Wagner himself distanced himself from the work, and it went largely unperformed for well over a century, earning its reputation as cursed.
Who are the main singers in Das Liebesverbot?
The principal cast features Christopher Maltman as Friedrich, Manuela Uhl as Isabella, Peter Lodahl as Lucio, Ilker Arcayürek as Claudio, David Jerusalem as Angelo, María Miró as Mariana, Ante Jerkunica as Brighella, David Alegret as Antonio, Isaac Galán as Danieli, and María Hinojosa as Dorella.
Where can I stream Das Liebesverbot?
Das Liebesverbot is available to stream via the Stingray Classica Amazon Channel as a flatrate subscription. You can compare all available viewing options in your region through JustWatch to find the most convenient platform for you.
Who directed the 2016 Das Liebesverbot production?
The 2016 filmed production of Das Liebesverbot was directed by János Darvas. The performance was captured live at the prestigious Teatro Real de Madrid and co-produced by Opus Arte, Teatro Real de Madrid, TVE, and EuroArts for international distribution.
What themes does Das Liebesverbot explore?
The opera champions sensual love and personal freedom against the crushing weight of fanatical, hypocritical authority. Wagner uses the story to attack puritanical repression of sexuality, echoing the revolutionary political mood of 1830s Germany and drawing on Shakespeare's timeless moral ambiguities from Measure for Measure.
How long is Das Liebesverbot?
Das Liebesverbot runs for approximately 160 minutes, or 2 hours and 40 minutes. This substantial runtime reflects the scope of Wagner's full operatic treatment of Shakespeare's Measure for Measure, encompassing all the drama, arias, and ensemble scenes of the complete work.
What are similar operas or films to Das Liebesverbot?
Viewers who enjoy Das Liebesverbot may also appreciate The Magic Flute (2006), The Metropolitan Opera: Don Pasquale (2010), Il Trovatore - Verdi (1978), Tancredi (1992), Donizetti: Lucia di Lammermoor (2009), and The Metropolitan Opera: La Fille du Régiment (2008), all of which offer richly staged operatic experiences.
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