Debut of Donizetti’s Maria Stuarda in Hungary
Premiering Donizetti’s Maria Stuarda in Hungary
The Hungarian State Opera is set to host the grand premiere of Donizetti’s Maria Stuarda on May 10, 2025, marking its first full-scale stage production in Hungary. Directed by Máté Szabó and conducted by Martin Rajna, this highly anticipated opera features a talented leading cast including Klára Kolonits as Mary Stuart, Gabriella Balga as Queen Elizabeth I, and Juraj Hollý as Robert Dudley.
The opera explores the turbulent relationship between Mary Stuart and Queen Elizabeth I during a time of political intrigue and personal despair. As Elizabeth faces foreign suitors, she grapples with the reality that Dudley, crucial to her heart, is advocating for Mary, who has spent 18 years in captivity. The narrative intensifies when the two queens meet, leading to a fateful clash of emotions that seals Mary’s destiny.
A Visual Feast
To enhance the storytelling, the production boasts stunning visual elements crafted by internationally acclaimed designer Antal Csaba, known for his work in productions directed by Balázs Kovalik. Costume designer Anni, a frequent collaborator of Szabó, joins forces to create a rich theatrical aesthetic. The lighting design is helmed by Csaba Szilárdi, with video projections by Zsombor and stage movement by Gergely Csanád Kováts.
A Stellar Cast
Klára Kolonits, a Kammersängerin of the Hungarian State Opera and recipient of the Kossuth and Liszt Prizes, takes on the title role after a successful concert performance in Szeged. Gabriella Balga, also a Kammersängerin, portrays Elizabeth I, building on their previous collaborations. The production features the robust 61-member orchestra and 65-member chorus, directed by Gábor Csiki, all under the baton of principal conductor Martin Rajna.
Live Streaming Event
Following the premiere, Maria Stuarda will have six additional performances on May 14, 16, 18, 23, 25 (matinée), and 31. Notably, the performance on May 16 will be streamed live on OperaVision, making it accessible to a wider audience and available for six months thereafter.
Historical Context
Donizetti originally composed Maria Stuarda in 1834, facing criticism and censorship that delayed its full premiere. After several failed attempts, it fell into obscurity until its revival in the 1990s. In Hungary, the opera was first presented in concert form in 2022, featuring Kolonits alongside Csilla Boross.
This upcoming production not only promises an engaging narrative but also aims to honor the operatic traditions of Italian bel canto, embodied in the artistic vision of Máté Szabó.
Don’t miss this remarkable artistic event at Budapest’s iconic Opera House!
Further Reading:
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