
Strauss: Elektra 1980
This gripping 1980 Metropolitan Opera production of Strauss' *Elektra* delivers a breathtaking rendition of one of the most intense operas ever composed.
Director: David Stivender
Cast



Frequently Asked Questions
What is Strauss: Elektra (1980) about?
The opera follows Elektra, who is consumed by a singular obsession: avenging her father's murder by killing her mother, Klytämnestra, and her stepfather, Aegisth. Her sister Chrysothemis, longing for normalcy, clashes with Elektra's destructive quest for justice.
Who directed Strauss: Elektra?
David Stivender directed this iconic 1980 Metropolitan Opera production, bringing Strauss' operatic vision to life with precision and emotional depth.
Who stars in Strauss: Elektra?
The stellar cast features Mignon Dunn, Birgit Nilsson, Leonie Rysanek, Robert Nagy, and Donald McIntyre in this unforgettable operatic performance.
Is Strauss: Elektra (1980) worth watching?
Absolutely—this production is a triumph of opera, blending Strauss' unforgettable score with a cast of legendary performers. Its intensity and drama make it a standout for both opera enthusiasts and newcomers to the genre.
How long is Strauss: Elektra?
The runtime for *Strauss: Elektra (1980)* is 110 minutes.
About Strauss: Elektra (1980) — A legendary opera performance you can't miss
This gripping 1980 Metropolitan Opera production of Strauss' *Elektra* delivers a breathtaking rendition of one of the most intense operas ever composed. Directed by David Stivender, the performance stars opera legends Mignon Dunn, Birgit Nilsson, and Leonie Rysanek, whose powerful portrayals bring Sophocles' dark tale to life with razor-sharp intensity. Set in a world of vengeance, obsession, and familial decay, Elektra's relentless pursuit of justice against her mother Klytämnestra and stepfather Aegisth clashes sharply with her sister Chrysothemis' desire for peace. The opera's haunting score, rich with dramatic tension, immerses listeners in a psychological thriller where loyalty and retribution collide.
A masterclass in vocal and theatrical drama, *Strauss: Elektra (1980)* is a must-watch for fans of grand opera and those seeking a visceral, emotionally charged experience. With its towering cast and Stivender's expert direction, this production captures the raw power and psychological depth of Strauss' operatic masterpiece, leaving audiences spellbound from start to finish.