Mozart Magic

I have to admit - I've never seen The Magic Flute before. Opera's not really my area of expertise, so I have very little opera-going experience, and if I'd have to choose between seeing a symphony and an opera, I would definitely choose the former. That being said, I was pleasantly enchanted by the Vienna State Opera House's performance of The Magic Flute, and ended up really adoring its quirky characters and humor by the time the curtain calls were over!

Being one of the premiere locations for operas in the world, the State Opera House's production had top-notch everything - brilliantly designed costumes, incredible special effects, awe-inspiring talent, and real birds*. Despite being a middle-aged man (and not a young person, as he was described to be in the opera), Tamino's actor played the role with youthful exuberance, patiently adventuring alongside a perky Papageno on their quest to save the lovely Pamina from her captor. Sarastro, the head of the secret order, dominated the stage with his intimidating presence and booming voice, while the Queen of the Night caused all of our jaws to collectively drop as she flawlessly hit the highest notes of her famous aria. Moons caught on fire, pyramids of light cast eerie shadows across the stage, snakes were slain, and veils of darkness swallowed the evil-doers in a spectacular show of stage effects, further complementing to the show's thrilling story. In the end, The Magic Flute lived up to its name, not only bewitching those on-stage with its melodies and characters, but all of us in the audience as well. Bravo, Vienna State Opera House, for a show I won't soon forget!

*By the way, I feel that it's worth mentioning that yes, indeed, they used real birds briefly during the show. When Papageno was introduced, he had a large birdcage full of doves strapped to his back, and a live pigeon balanced on his right arm. When he opened and closed the cage to examine each bird, they all behaved delightfully well, allowing him to show them off to the audience as needed. Kudos to whoever managed to train a bunch of birds to put up with Papageno's antics...!