Summer's grand theatre festivals unfold in Salzburg, Glyndebourne, and Lucerne
The Glyndebourne Festival Opera has announced its 2025 season, offering a captivating lineup of operatic performances. Here's a sneak peek at what's in store:
Operas
Wagner's Parsifal
Glyndebourne will be presenting its first-ever production of Wagner's epic opera, "Parsifal." The production features a cast of nearly 200 performers, with Daniel Johansson taking on the title role and Kristina Stanek as Kundry.
Káťa Kabanová
Conductor Robin Ticciati, Music Director of Glyndebourne, will reunite with Kateřina Kněžíková and Nicky Spence for a production of Janáček's "Káťa Kabanová."
Carmen by Bizet
Robin Ticciati will also conduct Bizet's "Carmen," with the London Philharmonic Orchestra and Glyndebourne Chorus.
Other Performances
In addition to these, "Le Nozze di Figaro" by Mozart, "Falstaff" by Verdi, and "Giulio Cesare in Egitto" by Handel will also be performed at Glyndebourne.
Notable Conductors
Robin Ticciati will be at the helm for "Parsifal" and "Carmen," while Anja Bihlmaier will conduct "Carmen."
Other Events
The Autumn Season 2025 will include a contemporary opera, "The Railway Children," directed by Stephen Langridge and conducted by Chloe Rooke.
Elsewhere in Europe
While specific details about the upcoming summer opera festivals in Salzburg and Lucerne are yet to be announced, these festivals are known for their wide range of classical music performances, including operas, concerts, and plays, featuring renowned conductors and artists. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, it's recommended to consult official announcements from the respective festival organizers.
In Lucerne, the symphonic music event runs from August 15 to September 14. Highlights include performances by the Berlin Philharmonic, conducted by Petrenko on September 2-3, and the Orchestra of Santa Cecilia, with conductor Harding and piano Martha Argerich on August 28.
The Lucerne event begins on August 15, with Riccardo Chailly and the Festival Orchestra kicking things off. On August 24, a vocal evening featuring Asmik Grigorian will take place, with a program that includes Bizet, Puccini, Messiaen, Lennon/McCartney, Lady Gaga, and Sting.
In Amsterdam, the Concertgebouw will perform on August 31, under the direction of Mäkelä. Esa-Pekka Salonen will conduct the Orchestre de Paris on August 29-30 in Lucerne.
Another opera being performed is Donizetti's "Maria Stuarda," featuring Kate Lindsey and Lisette Oropesa. A new play titled "Snowstorm," based on Vladimir Sorokin's novel and directed by Kirill Serebrennikov, is also being presented.
The Salzburg Festival, currently in its 105th edition, is ongoing until August 31.
The 2025 Glyndebourne Festival Opera season will offer entertainment beyond operatic performances, including music events such as the performance of Bizet's "Carmen" by the London Philharmonic Orchestra and Glyndebourne Chorus. In addition, the Lucerne festival will feature a wide range of music performances, including opera, concerts, and plays, with Martha Argerich performing on the piano.