Mozart’s Childhood Opera Makes a Comeback in Budapest
The Hungarian State Opera House is set to present Mozart’s comic opera “Bastien and Bastienne” in Budapest, as reported by Hungarian Nation. The performance, written by the composer when he was just 12 years old, will be part of the institution’s MVM Pikolo program for primary school children starting on September 7.
The plot follows Bastienne, a shepherdess who seeks the help of the village fortune-teller, Colas, out of fear that her partner Bastien will leave her. With a mix of humor and mischief, the story unfolds as the characters navigate through misunderstandings and magical interventions to ultimately find a happy ending.
Originally composed in 1768, “Bastien and Bastienne” is Mozart’s third opera and showcases a blend of French and German influences. The opera features Colas’s iconic gibberish spell, “Diggi, daggi, shurry, murry,” written by Mozart himself. After being rediscovered in 1890, the opera was performed by the Hungarian Royal Opera House, and now, 130 years later, it returns to the repertoire in the form of a youth performance.
The production will also include Menotti’s one-act opera “The Telephone,” featuring a humorous story of love and interruptions. The young cast of performers brings fresh energy to the stage, with Andrea Valkai directing and talented singers taking on the main roles.
Audiences can catch the performances of “Bastien and Bastienne” and “The Telephone” at the Hungarian State Opera House on various dates throughout the fall and winter, starting from October 12. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience the charm and wit of these classic operas in a new and exciting light.
