The Teatro Real Madrid is set to unveil its latest production, the opera The Nose, on March 13, 2023. Collaborating with the Royal Opera House, Komische Oper Berlin, and Opera Australia, the Teatro Real promises to deliver a stunning performance of Dmitri Shostakovich's first opera, based on Nikolai Gogol’s novel.
The Nose is satirical opera that tells the story of a government official, Kovalyov, who wakes up one morning to find that his nose has mysteriously vanished from his face. He soon discovers that his missing nose has become a person in its own right, with a higher rank in society than himself. Kovalyov sets out on a surreal journey to reclaim his nose, encountering bizarre characters and situations along the way. The opera is an absurdist masterpiece, blending humor and social commentary to create a unique and unforgettable work. Shostakovich's score is equally unconventional, with dissonant harmonies and unconventional orchestration reflecting the absurdity of the story.
The Nose is considered one of the most challenging works to stage, making it an excellent test for every creative team attempting to bring it to life on stage. However, with a passionate staging by renowned Barrie Kosky and the musical direction of Mark Wigglesworth, this production is expected to succeed.
The cast of TACT artists is equally impressive, with an outstanding lineup of tenor Dmitry Ivanchey as The Nose, bass Alexander Teliga as Ivan Yakovlevich, tenor Vasily Efimov as Ivan, tenor Andrei Popov as Police Inspector, and young baritone Milan Perisic as Ivan Ivanovich.
Mezzo-soprano Agnes Zwierko debuts as The Old Countess, while soprano Ania Jeruc makes both her role and house debut as Praskovaya Ossipovna. Iwona Sobotka performs The Daughter, and mezzo-soprano Margarita Nekrasova appears as Podtochina. Hetag Tedeev is contributing as an Assistant Conductor, and Aleksandra Tarasenko as Language Coach.
This production promises to be a captivating evening of opera, with a stunning cast and crew set to deliver an unforgettable performance. Shostakovich's music, combined with Kosky's inventive staging and Wigglesworth's musical direction, is sure to transport audiences to another world.
Teatro Real Madrid has once again demonstrated its commitment to providing world-class opera productions, and this performance is no exception. Don't miss your chance to be part of this incredible experience!