Rienzi, der Letzte der Tribunen - schedule, program & buy tickets

Grand tragic opera in five acts
Poetry by Richard Wagner, based on the novel by Edward Bulwer-Lytton Rienzi, or The Last of the Tribunes

In German with German and English surtitles

Can one man represent the will of all? Rienzi, a man from the Roman bourgeoisie, wants to put an end to the rule of the nobility in his home town. When he comes to power, however, humanist ideals increasingly disappear and a bitter power struggle ensues when he is assassinated.

Richard Wagner (1813-1883) dealt with medieval themes throughout his life. In his third completed opera, he focuses on the life of Cola de Rienzo, who stood up for the "common people" in the 14th century and was therefore called the tribune of the people. The premiere of Rienzi took place on October 20, 1842 at the Royal Saxon Court Theatre; only a short time later, Richard Wagner was appointed Royal Saxon Kapellmeister. The large choral scenes in their tableau effect are drawn from the Grand Opéra, vocal solo passages are reminiscent of bel canto and the symphonic orchestral treatment anticipates the later music dramas. Klaus Florian Vogt sings the demanding title role for the first time, adding an important part to his extensive Wagner repertoire.

Subject to change without notice.