Germany
Opera in Germany
Nowhere is opera more alive: around one third of all opera performances in the world are staged in Germany. The figure of more than 80 opera houses in the destination of Germany is unparalleled anywhere else, as is the number of premieres. Since Germany’s first opera house opened its doors on Munich’s Salvatorplatz in 1657, opera has become one of the pillars of national culture; a magnet for millions of visitors from all over the world – and for outstanding performers.
You can find a brief description of Germany’s most important opera houses by visiting their website. Some featuring magnificent decor, plush boxes, marble and many items reminiscent of courtly eras, others favouring a simpler, more modern and down-to-earth style. All fascinating audiences with amazing productions, spanning the full spectrum of operatic creation, from Baroque to contemporary. Some opera experiences are even transformed into airy and light open-air events with live broadcasts in summer. As you can see: it’s time to discover something very special. Or simply: time for opera in Germany. Below is just one example of such opera houses.
Bayerische Staatsoper: a temple devoted to art
With its Corinthian columns, the fact that Munich’s National Theatre resembles a temple is most likely no coincidence. The home of the Bayerische Staatsoper, the Bayerisches Staatsorchester and the Bayerisches Staatsballett has always been a place of devotion to higher arts. The young Amadeus Mozart, no less, made his breakthrough here with Idomeneo – premiered on 29 January 1781; and the “Fairy Tale King” Ludwig II later summoned the heavily indebted Richard Wagner to the prestigious venue. The majority of the current building dates back to 1825; with five refurbishments and modernisations having brought it up to date with the times. The 2,500 m² stage area, ranking among the three largest in the world, reflects the productions presented here: art on the grandest scale.
