02/22/14 – Der Rosenkavalier – 1pm

Metropolitan Opera

Der Rosenkavalier by Richard Strauss
Libretto by Hugo von Hofmannsthal

Sung in German
Approximate running time 4 hrs. 23 min. with 2 intermissions.

Strauss’s bittersweet comic masterpiece features a superb ensemble led by Martina Serafin as the Marschallin. The performances celebrate the 100th anniversary of the opera’s U.S. premiere. Edward Gardner conducts.

“Witty, elegant and profoundly moving… a wonderful cast…” (New York Times)

Martina Serafin “express[es] the wistfulness and nobility of the Marschallin… Peter Rose, singing with a ringing bass and convincing Viennese-inflected German, brought out both the menacing and the laughable aspects of Ochs…” Erin Morley as Sophie gives a “thoroughly confident and rounded portrayal,” singing with a “limpid, fluid soprano.” (New York Times)

Edward Gardner “drew an impassioned and nuanced performance from the Met Orchestra.” (New York Times)

“The revival marks the 100th anniversary of this opera’s first Met performance. The dramatic coherence and artistic integrity made it feel new.” (New York Times)

Martina Serafin “imbued the Marschallin with fine dignity, paying equal attention to vivacity and melancholy.” (Financial Times)

Martina Serafin “inhabited [her] part with an aching delicacy. Gorgeous round tones delivered the Marschallin’s sweetness, regret, resignation, and wisdom turn by exquisite turn.” (Classical Review)

Erin Morley brought “youth and a natural innocence” to the role of Sophie, “matched by a sweet voice that enlivened every scene in which she appeared.” (Classical Review)

Cast/Crew