The Abduction from the Seraglio 2006 Directed by Tomáš Šimerda Die Entfuhrung aus dem Serail
Without question, this is an incredibly bizarre production. The revised storyline makes little sense, and there is a surprising amount of violence and sexual innuendo. However, the singers are superb, both vocally and in regard to their stage presence and acting, the orchestra plays beautifully, the chorus is wonderful, and the set is as clever as it is strange. It's definitely not for purists, or for someone new to this particular opera. But for someone who's seen Die Entfuhrung before, and is familiar enough with the original story to not miss it, watching Belmonte, Constanze, Blonde, Pedrillo, and Osmin embark on an entirely new adventure -- and push the boundaries of good taste -- is rather enjoyable.
Cast
Laura Aikin
Konstanze
Charles Castronovo
Belmonte
Valentina Farcas
Blonde
Franz Hawlata
Osmin
Dieter Kerschbaum
Pedrillo
Ivor Bolton
Conductor