Opinions are divided on the subject of opera direction. We in the Festspielhaus are suspicious of the current instructive “director’s theatre” approach, and follow the rule of thumb that it is the libretto and music which are most important. The direction is there to serve the singers and the work. In the theatre it has long been common practice for actors take to the director’s chair although a directing opera singer remains a rarity indeed. The great Brigitte Fassbaender is one name that springs to mind – and now Rolando Villazón will take on the challenge in the Festspielhaus. The tenor has sung Donizetti’s “Elixir of Love” often and will now direct this opera for the first time while also singing his classic role in the production - that of Nemorino. Hardly any another singer today has developed such diverse potential as resolutely as Villazón. We can’t wait for this highly personal premiere!

Rolando Villazón Director
Pablo Heras-Casado Musical Direction
Johannes Leiacker Stage Design
Thibault Vancraenenbroeck Costumes 

Miah Persson Adina
Rolando Villazón Nemorino
Roman Trekel Belcore
Ildebrando D’Arcangelo Dulcamara
Regula Mühlemann Gianetta
Balthasar Neumann Choir
Balthasar Neumann Ensemble

Gaetano Donizetti
L'elisir d'amore (The Elixir of Love))
Opera buffa (comic opera) in 2 acts
Libretto by Felice Romani based on Eugène Scribe’s Le philtre    

Finishing time approx.: 10.45pm / 8.45p