all walks of opera

Review: Korea National Opera's  Tannhäuser  – A Wagnerian Triumph The Korea National Opera’s recent production of Wagner's  Tannhäuser  was a monumental experience for both seasoned Wagnerians and newcomers alike. This performance, staged at the Seoul Arts Center, marked the first full staging of the opera in South Korea in 45 years, and it did not disappoint. Directed by the renowned Yona Kim, the performance was an immersive dive into Wagner's world of deep philosophical tension between desire and redemption. The  Tannhäuser  production, held in parallel with  La Forza del Destino  in Daejeon, drew attention for its religious atmosphere. Both operas explore profound spiritual conflicts, and the comparison between the two enhanced the thematic resonance of each performance.  Tannhäuser 's intricate portrayal of the struggle between Venus's sensual allure and Elisabeth’s path to salvation gave the audience much to reflect on. Kim's direc...

Tannhäuser  – The Human Drama Behind the Myth Richard Wagner's Tannhäuser  is more than just a romantic opera – it’s a reflection of the artist’s inner turmoil and the human condition itself. Premiered in 1845, this work stands out as one of Wagner's pivotal creations, marking his departure from conventional opera towards the ‘music drama’ that would define his later works. Set against the backdrop of the medieval Minnesingers’ world,  Tannhäuser  tells the story of a knight torn between two worlds: the earthly pleasures offered by Venus and the spiritual salvation represented by Elisabeth. At its core,  Tannhäuser  explores the human struggle between bodily desires and higher ideals. The lead character embodies this conflict, caught between the passionate allure of Venus and his quest for redemption through Elisabeth’s unconditional love. What makes this opera so compelling is how Wagner uses the characters to mirror broader themes of human existence: the ...