The story of Celtic lovers Tristan and Isolde will be presented on the big screen at Creston and District Public Library at 6:30 p.m. Feb. 23, courtesy of Deutsche Grammophen. The opera is in three acts by Richard Wagner. It was produced in Bayreuth, Germany, and will have English subtitles.
The performance is conducted by Daniel Barenboim. Title roles are performed by tenor Rene Kollo and soprano Johanna Meier. Soprano Hanna Schwarz is Brangane, Isolde’s companion, and baritone Hermann Becht is Kurwenal, Tristan’s servant.
Tristan und Isolde is set in the Middle Ages and begins with a ship carrying Princess Isolde from Ireland to Cornwall, England, to marry King Mark. She does not wish the marriage and scorns the prestige that the union would afford her. Her love for Tristan is revealed, misunderstandings ensue, and the conclusion is tragic.
Tristan und Isolde features beautiful arias, love duets and a renowned prelude.
The DVD belongs to Jasmine Lothien, a longtime fan and student of opera, who will introduce Tristan und Isolde.
We know that operas are written by highly trained and highly intelligent musicians. Performers are required to demonstrate abilities in complex singing roles and dramatic acting. The Bayreuth production was staged and directed by Jean-Pierre Ponnelle and has received rave reviews.
Appreciation is extended to librarian Aaron Francis and assistant Gail Southall for researching possibilities of continuing opera presentations at the Creston library. Pre-viewing organization is also appreciated.
There is no charge for admission. For more information, contact Jasmine Lothien at 250-402-3262 or Julie Ewashen at 250-428-7097.
—BY JULIE EWASHEN