Rise and Fall of the City of Mahagonny 2015
Dive into *Rise and Fall of the City of Mahagonny (2015)*, a bold operatic spectacle that brings Bertolt Brecht and Kurt Weill's biting satire to the Royal Opera House stage.
Director: John Fulljames
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is *Rise and Fall of the City of Mahagonny (2015)* about?
This opera follows a group of outcasts who establish an imaginary city fueled by money and pleasure, only to watch it collapse under the weight of their own corruption. Brecht and Weill's sharp satire critiques capitalism, morality, and the fleeting nature of human desire, all wrapped in a darkly comedic yet haunting narrative.
Who directed *Rise and Fall of the City of Mahagonny*?
John Fulljames directed this Royal Opera staging, marking his innovative approach to Brecht and Weill's iconic work.
Who stars in *Rise and Fall of the City of Mahagonny*?
The production features Anne Sofie von Otter, Peter Hoare, Willard White, Christine Rice, and Kurt Streit in standout roles.
Is *Rise and Fall of the City of Mahagonny (2015)* worth watching?
With its stellar cast, dynamic staging, and timeless themes, this opera is a must-see for fans of classical music and satire alike. While it's not for everyone, its bold vision and compelling performances make it a rewarding experience for those willing to dive into its provocative world.
How long is *Rise and Fall of the City of Mahagonny*?
The runtime is 180 minutes.
About Rise and Fall of the City of Mahagonny (2015) — A Brecht-Weill Masterpiece Bringing Operatic Satire to Life
Dive into *Rise and Fall of the City of Mahagonny (2015)*, a bold operatic spectacle that brings Bertolt Brecht and Kurt Weill's biting satire to the Royal Opera House stage. Directed by John Fulljames, this English-language production unfolds with razor-sharp wit and electrifying energy, exposing the hollow promises of wealth, hedonism, and moral decay in a mythical American city. The staging, conducted by Mark Wigglesworth, transforms Brecht and Weill's 1930 masterpiece into a visually striking, thought-provoking experience. With a stellar cast led by Anne Sofie von Otter, Peter Hoare, and Willard White, the opera blends dark humor with haunting melodies, creating an atmosphere that's as unsettling as it is mesmerizing. Whether you're a fan of classical music or a newcomer to opera, this production challenges, entertains, and lingers in the mind long after the final note.
Set against the backdrop of a neon-lit paradise turned purgatory, *Mahagonny* follows a group of misfit outcasts as they chase fortune and fleeting pleasures in a lawless utopia. But as greed and corruption take hold, their dreams curdle into chaos, revealing the fragility of human values. Fulljames' visionary direction and the powerhouse performances of Christine Rice, Kurt Streit, and Jeffrey Lloyd-Roberts anchor this satirical odyssey, making it a standout in modern operatic storytelling.