Visionary stage directors of the 21st century

Blending music, dance, and drama, opera has long held a prominent place in the world of arts. While tradition is an integral part of its appeal, visionary directors are breathing new life into this storied art form.

In this latest episode of Musica, we delve into the work of these pioneers, exploring the expansive scope of creative expression in contemporary opera.

Tobias Kratzer represents the vanguard of opera directors. A graduate of the prestigious Bavarian Theater Academy August-Everding, Kratzer has reimagined opera as a visual spectacle, seamlessly integrating video into his stage productions.

The award-winning director relishes a challenge. Recently, he set his sights on 'Faust' at the Opéra Bastille - Charles Gounod’s five-act classic.

"Faust is grand opera. It was clear to me that it had to be spectacular. For the epic journey that Faust and Mephisto embark on through Paris in our production, we needed a plethora of visuals,” Kratzer explains.

His production, staged at the iconic Opéra national de Paris, resonated with Parisian audiences.

Kratzer collaborates with a team of exceptional artists, including video artist Manuel Braun and set and costume designer Rainer Sellmaier.

"Every new project becomes more exciting as we challenge each other to innovate and create entirely new spaces and interpretations,” Kratzer notes.

Their latest piece is a rendition of Rossini’s 'Moise et Pharaon,' which premiered at the Festival d'Aix-en-Provence last summer and was then staged at the Opéra national de Lyon in January. As is so often the case, a video projection plays a significant role. 

"We employed underwater cameramen for the first time, along with two divers filming beneath the surface. It was a highly intricate production