Like the tormented twin Remus once escaped from his successful brother Romulus, many opera enthusiasts who are troubled by directorial theater now seek refuge in Rheinsberg, Brandenburg. Here, the world of musical theater remains as enchanting as ever. Frederick II, also known as “the Great,” supposedly called the castle where he spent part of his youth “Remusberg.”
Legend has it that during the Renaissance period, the conscious Remus sought refuge in Rheinsberg from his murderous brother, the founder of Rome. To Ostprignitz-Ruppin, of all places! Back then, it was known by a different name, but it certainly provided a safe haven. As a silver-haired festival-goer in Rheinsberg today says, “It’s relatively peaceful here.”
The “International Festival of Young Opera Singers” has been dedicated to enhancing the picturesque Rococo palace and its beautiful parkland for a quarter of a century, with events running from June to August. Performances take place in the palace courtyard overlooking the lake or in the hedge theater surrounded by landscaped gardens. The atmosphere is serene, birds chirp, and during the break, the horn player from Concerto Brandenburg diligently applies insect repellent.
The audience, experienced in open-air concerts, appreciates the effort put into the performances. People are delighted when it doesn’t rain in this unpredictable summer of 2024, and even if it does, everyone remains friendly. The musicians, like the attentive violinist, are always willing to help lost visitors find their way to the theater. The dedication to pleasing the audience at these smaller German cultural summer festivals is incredibly endearing.
The performance of Christoph Willibald Gluck’s “Iphigenie in Aulis” is well-received, with an introduction to the context of the plot provided by Agamemnon, portrayed by Dietrich Henschel. The audience in the 18th century was well-versed not only in French but also in the stories of Romulus and Remus, as well as Greek mythology.
The Rheinsberg Summer program focuses on late 18th-century works, such as Gluck’s Iphigenie, performed a few years after its premiere in Paris. While the direction feels somewhat static, it allows talented singers like Henschel and Vivica Genaux to shine. Despite its flaws, the performance still resonates when Agamemnon speaks the line, “The gods are the murderers!”
The Rheinsberg Festival offers opera galas alongside the main theme of “The Shadows of Troy.” This summer, there is even a screening of a silent film about Troy from 1924 with live music. The mix of old and new talent, solid experience, and fresh spirit creates a unique and captivating atmosphere at the festival.
Rheinsberg: A Haven for Opera Lovers
In the world of opera, where directorial interpretations often overshadow the beauty of the music itself, Rheinsberg in Brandenburg stands out as a refuge for those seeking a more traditional and authentic experience. Often referred to as “Remusberg” in reference to the legendary twin brother of Romulus, the town exudes a sense of tranquility and cultural richness that is rare to find in today’s fast-paced world.
The International Festival of Young Opera Singers, held annually from June to August at the picturesque Rococo palace, is a testament to Rheinsberg’s commitment to preserving the art of musical theater. The performances take place in the palace courtyard with a backdrop of the serene lake or in the hedge theater surrounded by lush greenery, creating a magical atmosphere for both performers and audience alike.
One of the highlights of the festival is the performance of Christoph Willibald Gluck’s “Iphigenie in Aulis”, a French opera sung in German to ensure that the audience can fully grasp the storyline. Before the music begins, a witty foreword by the actor playing Agamemnon sets the stage for an engaging and accessible performance that captivates both opera aficionados and newcomers to the genre.
While the direction of the opera may be somewhat static, the vocal performances are nothing short of mesmerizing. From the commanding presence of Agamemnon to the balsamic and sensitive portrayal of Achilles, each character comes to life on stage, transporting the audience back to ancient Greece.
The Rheinsberg Festival goes beyond traditional opera galas by offering a thematic program centered around “The Shadows of Troy”, exploring the timeless themes of love, betrayal, and war. This year, audiences can look forward to rare performances of operas about the tragic love story of Dido and Aeneas, as well as a silent film screening with live music from 1924 that brings the ancient city of Troy to life.
In addition to the captivating performances, the festival also offers a mix of old and new talent, combining the experience of seasoned opera stars with the fresh energy of emerging artists. The result is a dynamic and engaging program that appeals to a wide range of musical tastes and preferences.
Whether you’re a die-hard opera fan or simply looking for a unique and cultural experience, Rheinsberg is a destination worth exploring. With its rich history, picturesque surroundings, and world-class performances, the town truly embodies the essence of classical music and theater. Make sure to plan your visit to Rheinsberg during the festival season to immerse yourself in the magic of opera in this charming and historic setting.
