Der Zwerg

Based on Oscar Wildes story The Birthday of the Infanta, Zemlinskys single-act opera Der Zwerg is the tragic tale of a dwarf who is presented at court, falls in love with the beautiful Donna Clara, but is ultimately forced to see himself as others see him and to die of a broken heart. Preceded by Schoenbergs Accompaniment to a Cinematographic Scene, Op. 34, Zemlinskys Romantic score is full of psychological intrigue. Is Der Zwerg a critique of societys superficiality? Is it the composers self-portrait in his doomed affair with Alma Schindler? Director Tobias Kratzers stunning, transparent production creates a space in which each character is thrown into sharp relief in this fine, noble and melancholy work.

CAST

Elena TsallagovaDonna Clara, Infanta of Spain

Emily MageeGhita, her attendant

David Butt PhilipDer Zwerg

Mick Morris MehnertDer Zwerg (actor)

Philipp JekalDon Estoban, the chamberlain

Flurina StuckiMaid

Amber FasquelleMaid

Maliu VaahtoluotoMaid

So Young ParkCompanion

Kristina HägerCompanion