Opera

Concert by the International Opera Studio

Whether operetta, revue or musical - the light music of the early 20th century still knows how to play out its very own charm like no other. At the same time, its path repeatedly leads through times of great political upheaval and crisis. It is during these times that the art form is increasingly able to play out its critical and political tendencies - operetta has long been much more than just popping champagne corks and opera balls. Under the dictates of the National Socialists, many works were suddenly deemed "degenerate" or "typically Jewish". Thus the bitter path for all too many artists often led to emigration across the 'big pond' - from where the evergreens of Cole Porter or the sounds of Leonard Bernstein soon heralded the dawn of new times. Exploring this allure of lively, catchy music and moving fate is a particular concern of the concert. Accompany the four young voices of the International Opera Studio on a journey from the Straussian beginnings of operetta through Lehár and Weill to musicals by Rodgers and Hammerstein.