The Magic Flute

The Magic Flute, which was first presented over two centuries ago in Vienna, is an opera that wastes no time delving into the world of fairy tales. It is a singspiel, a story expressed through song, which Mozart composed in an attempt to appeal to audiences from all walks of life. The structure of the composition and its libretto proved to be an effective way of manoeuvring from one complex mood to another in the play. Although the play is essentially a fairy tale, Tony Award-winning producer Julie Taymor has filled it with deep symbolism and glazed it with simple comedy. Instead of rationalising the seemingly fantastical themes, Taymor has embraced these mystic elements and stepped it up a notch with a multitude of cultural elements from around the world.

The show features leading opera artists including Piotr Buszewski, Joshua Blue, Janai Brugger, and Liv Redpath. The cast also features famed tenor Rolando Villazón reprising his uproarious portrayal as the luckless bird catcher Papageno, alternating with baritone Alexander Birch Elliott, and soprano Kathryn Lewek as the Queen of the Night. A wide range of thoughtfully designed costumes, incredible puppetry, and a talented cast of performers make The Magic Flute one of the top shows to look out for this season!

The Story

Set in a mythical world right in between the sun and the moon, The Magic Flute follows the classic fairy tale formula. Prince Tamino is saved from a serpent by three maidens who serve the Queen of the Night. Tamino is commanded by the Queen to rescue her daughter Pamina from the clutches of the evil Sarastro. In his quest to save the queen’s daughter, the prince is accompanied by Papageno the Birdcatcher and three spirit guides.

The two eventually meet a high priest who convinces them that it is the queen, and not Sarastro, who is truly evil. Prine Tamino ensures Pamina that he will free her from the torturous grasp of the Queen of The Night. To do this, he must pass three rigorous trials.