Werther - Jules Massenet

Jules Massenet - Werther at the Vienna State Opera

Immerse yourself in Jules Massenet's moving drama, “Werther“, at the Vienna State Opera. This lyrical opera in four acts, based on Johann Wolfgang von Goethe's epistolary novel “The Sorrows of Young Werther“, tells the tragic love story of young Werther, who is madly in love with Charlotte, the bailiff's daughter. Despite her feelings for Werther, Charlotte has to renounce him because she promised her dying mother that she would marry Albert. Werther cannot accept this fate and confesses his love to Charlotte again after her wedding. In a tragic twist, Werther takes his own life, and Charlotte can only confess her love in the face of the dying man.

Andrei Serban's 2005 production moves the action to the 1950s of the 20th century. Peter Pabst's stage, dominated by a large tree whose crown represents the changing seasons, symbolizes the theme of passing time, which plays a central role in the work.

“Werther“ is considered one of the most important works of the French romantic repertoire and impresses with its musical diversity and originality. Massenet, who wanted to build on the success of his opera “Manon“ with “Werther“, looked for new creative ways and forms of expression instead of adhering to the dictates of the director of the Paris Opéra-Comique. So he experimented with orchestration and, among other things, added the saxophone as a soloist in order to achieve impressionistic timbres.

The driving force behind the creation of “Werther“ was Massenet's publisher and librettist Georges Hartmann. Together they attended a Parsifal performance in Bayreuth in 1885 and then traveled to Wetzlar, the setting of Goethe's novel. Hartmann, a great admirer of German culture, urged Massenet to engage with the material and attached great importance to the authenticity of the setting.

Experience this gripping opera, which impresses with its deep emotions, haunting music and impressive staging, live at the Vienna State Opera.

Secure your tickets now and let yourself be captivated by Massenet's masterful setting and Serban's captivating direction.

program

Werther
Jules Massenet
Drame lyrique in vier Akten
Text Georges Hartmann & Édouard Blau & Paul Milliet
nach Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

Place

Vienna State Opera – World-Renowned Stage for Opera and Ballet in the Heart of Vienna

The Vienna State Opera is one of the world's leading opera houses and a cultural landmark of Austria. Located prominently in the heart of Vienna, along the famous Ringstrasse, it offers outstanding opera productions featuring international stars and a renowned ballet ensemble.

Since its grand opening in 1869, the Vienna State Opera has been synonymous with musical excellence, artistic perfection, and an extensive repertoire ranging from operatic classics to contemporary works. Each season, it stages more than 300 performances, including world-famous operas such as Mozart’s "The Magic Flute", Verdi’s "La Traviata", and Puccini’s "Tosca".

Alongside its acclaimed opera productions, the Vienna State Opera is also home to the celebrated Vienna State Ballet, renowned for both classical and contemporary dance performances. The annual Vienna Opera Ball is a prestigious social event with international prominence.

Getting There by Public Transport

Subway:

• Lines U1, U2, U4 – Karlsplatz station, direct access

Tram:

• Lines 1, 2, D, 62, 71 – Oper/Karlsplatz stop

Bus:

• Line 59A – Oper stop

Its central location on Vienna’s Ringstrasse ensures convenient and easy access.

Vienna State Opera – A Symbol of Viennese Culture and Musical Excellence

As one of the world's premier opera houses, the Vienna State Opera is an essential destination for opera enthusiasts, music lovers, and visitors seeking to experience the cultural heart of Vienna.