Klaus Zehelein, the 83-year-old opera maestro, won major props for his life's work at the German Theater Award "Der Faust 2023." Russian director Kirill Serebrennikov praised Zehelein's grit in championing a fresh perspective on musical theater, even revolutionizing its very essence.
Klaus Zehelein boasts an impressive resumé. He moonlighted as opera director at the Stuttgart State Opera from 1991 to 2006, then assumed the post of President of the Bavarian Theater Academy August Everding at Prinzregententheater in Munich. He was also a lecturer at the University of Oldenburg, and served as chief dramaturge and opera director at his hometown's opera house, Frankfurt am Main. From 2003 to 2015, he wore thePresident's hat at the German Stage Association.
The diverse theater landscape in Germany was celebrated at the awards, with categories spanning from dance performers to genre-jumping architects. Some other awardees included Ligia Lewis, Fritzi Haberlandt, Vera-Lotte Boecker, Wicki Bernhardt and Janna Pinsker, Florentina Holzinger, Stefan Bachmann, and David Hermann, among others.
Zehelein's original take on musical theater was celebrated with the German Theater Award. Despite retiring from his opera director role in Stuttgart, Zehelein remains a significant figure in the thriving theater scene. He continues to instill his vision at the German Stage Association and through his work as an opera director in Frankfurt am Main.
Klaus Zehelein is widely regarded as a groundbreaking force in the opera world. His industrious spirit can be seen in his trailblazing productions, cutting-edge collaborations with artists and conductors like Riccardo Muti and Riccardo Chailly, and his commitment to reviving lesser-known operas. He has graced the stages of major opera houses worldwide, including the Metropolitan Opera in New York, La Scala in Milan, and the Royal Opera House in London.
As an educator, Zehelein has played a pivotal role in nurturing an appreciation for opera among the young. Through workshops, masterclasses, and his tireless advocacy for the art form, he continues to inspire a new generation of up-and-coming opera artists.
His contributions to opera have earned him numerous awards, including the prestigious German Theater Award. His productions often delve into contemporary themes, bridging the gap between classical music and modern culture.
In essence, Klaus Zehelein is a passionate and innovative pioneer in the world of opera. His daring approach to storytelling, fearless collaborations, and educational outreach have propelled him into the pantheon of opera greats as well as warmed the hearts of modern theater enthusiasts alike.
