In Strauss’ ‘scandal opera’, Salome, based on the play by enfant terrible Oscar Wilde, all the protagonists selfishly pursue fulfilment. Director Ersan Mondtag, who previously created flamboyant productions at Opera Ballet Vlaanderen such as Schreker’s Der Schmied von Gent, focuses on the political thriller in Strauss’ breathtaking work. He sees parallels between the historical Herod, vassal of the Roman Empire, and contemporary dictators such as Belarusian president Aleksandr Lukashenko. Both are completely dependent on a higher power to maintain their rule. However, revolutionary forces are intent on a total destruction of Herod’s declining empire. Alejo Pérez conducts the OBV Symphony Orchestra, in a production acclaimed by audiences and critics alike. Streamed by Slippedisc, courtesy of OperaVision.
Sung in German. Subtitles in Dutch, English and German.
The Plot: Herod lusts after his stepdaughter Salome and insists on seeing her dance. Salome longs to kiss the mouth of the imprisoned John the Baptist – a prophet of doom who loses himself in hate speech.
Streamed on Friday 7th February 2025 at at 1900 CET /1800 London /1300 New York
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