Autumn 2018The Tales of Hoffmann
Jacques Offenbach
Opéra Fantastique in five acts
Johannes Erath’s critically-acclaimed direction maintains constant action onstage, while still giving space to Jacques Offenbach’s entrancingly beautiful music. True to its name, the eventful opera is based on the stories of poet E. T. A. Hoffmann.
Recommended for children over the age of 12.
The Tales of Hoffmann is a production of the highly renowned Semperoper Dresden.
Libretto by Jules Barbier, based on the play by Jules Barbier and Michel Carré. Edited by Michael Kaye and Jean-Christophe Keck.
The Tales of Hoffmann is a fabulous festival of arias with world class soloists, including the sopranos Helena Juntunen, Jenny Carlstedt and Measha Brueggergosman. The production will also be a prime opportunity to experience the impressive power of the Chorus of the FNO.
”This production is both-and, it has so many layers. The stories overlap, divide, interlock and break apart again. In our direction, we’ve tried to stay true to Hoffmann’s kaleidoscopic storytelling style. There is no continuity in life. We’d love there to be, but reality bites every time.”
– Director Johannes Erath
The poet Hoffmann details the great loves of his life. First he is in love with Olympia who is perfect – apart from the fact that she’s in fact a mechanical doll. Then we meet the sick Antonia who will die if she sings, and yet she bursts into song. Finally, we’re introduced to the Venetian courtesan Giulietta to the tune of the famous barcarolle.
You can read the complete synopsis in the programme leaflet.
Music
Jacques Offenbach
Conductor
Director
Johannes Erath
Sets
Heike Scheele
Costumes
Gesine Völlm
Lighting design
Fabio Antoci
Video design
Alexander Scherpink
Hoffmann
Hoffmann
Muse
Olympia
Antonia
Giulietta
Lindorf / coppelius / dapertutto / miracle
Andreas/ cochenille/ pitichinaccio/ frantz
Spalanzani
Schlemihl/ hermann
Crespel/ luther
Mother's voice
Nathanael
Wilhelm
Please note that seats in the lowest price category on the sides of the 2nd and 3rd balconies have a restricted view of the stage.
Performances on 19 Oct, 25 Oct, 27 Oct, 14 Nov, 16 Nov and 20 Nov are included in the season ticket. Individual tickets will go on sale on 12 June 2018.
Sweet and savoury treats
Choose your favourite refreshments from this season’s tasty menu. You can easily add refreshments to your shopping basket while selecting tickets in our new online store.
The services of the Opera Restaurant are available before performances and during the interval. Order beforehand and avoid the queues.
Enjoy the benefits of a season ticket
If you visit us several times a year and would like to ensure yourself a seat at future premieres, a season ticket is the perfect choice for you. As a season ticket holder, you'll be entitled to special discounts, wonderful benefits and a designated seat in the auditorium.
Gift voucher
Give a friend or family member an evening at the opera or ballet.
Opening hours
We are here to help you both in person and by phone, Monday through Saturday.
Press and Media
Press bulletins, photos and tickets, interview requests and PR staff contact details.
Groups and companies
Make a splash and organise a reception at the Opera House.
With children
Performances for children and tips for families.
Refreshments
Fancy a treat? The Opera Restaurant has plenty of delectable options. Services are available before performances and during the interval.
Regular customers
Becoming a regular customer is worth it: see the twelve benefits granted to season ticket holders.
Accessibility
Read about step-free access at the Opera House.
Getting there
The Opera House is easily accessible by car, public transport and even bicycle.
Programme booklets
Find out more about the performances.
Tours
Pull back the curtain and take a peek backstage on a guided tour.
Tickets
Read more about exchanging your ticket, ticket types, flexible pricing, discounts and our sales and delivery terms.