This October, the Stavros Niarchos Foundation is set to present an exceptional double bill of operas by Christoph Willibald Gluck: Iphigénie en Aulide and Iphigénie en Tauride. Under the direction of the renowned Russian director Dmitri Tcherniakov, this highly anticipated event will mark the opening of the 2024/25 season for the Greek National Opera. The performances will take place in the Stavros Niarchos Hall at the SNFCC from October 10 to 30, 2024, with performances scheduled for October 10, 13, 16, 19, 22, 27, 30 at at 6:00 PM.
The production is generously supported by a grant from the Stavros Niarchos Foundation (SNF), aimed at enhancing the Greek National Opera’s artistic outreach.
A Tragic Saga Unfolds
The double bill aims to delve into the tragic saga of the Atreides family, exploring how the victim in Aulis transforms into the executioner in Tauris. Tcherniakov’s vision presents a stage set that transcends time, reflecting the haunting cycle of violence and dehumanization that resonates with contemporary issues. The production has received widespread acclaim following its successful premiere at the Aix-en-Provence Festival, earning a prolonged standing ovation from audiences. Critics from major publications like the New York Times praised its deep, reflective take on the impacts of conflict, with Tcherniakov’s Iphigénies recently nominated for Best New Opera Production at the International Opera Awards 2024.
Gluck’s Operatic Transformation
Gluck’s operas, written during the late 18th century, represent a significant shift in opera, moving away from the Baroque style towards a more dramatic narrative. The seamless integration of music and libretto, along with the enhanced role of the orchestra, elevates the emotional impact of the performances. Although not directly based on Euripides, these works draw inspiration from French 18th-century texts, showcasing Gluck’s genius as a composer and “reformer” of opera.
A Historical Connection
This will be the Greek National Opera’s first presentation of Iphigénie en Aulide, while Iphigénie en Tauride has a historical connection to Greece, having premiered at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus in 1946. As Giorgos Koumendakis, the Artistic Director of the GNO, notes, the timeless themes of war and its consequences make this double bill especially relevant today.
Tcherniakov’s Vision
Dmitri Tcherniakov, celebrated as one of the most influential directors in modern opera, has garnered prestigious awards for his innovative stage direction and scenography. His previous productions have graced the world’s most esteemed venues, including the Mariinsky Theatre and La Scala. His passion for the Iphigénie operas traces back to his childhood fascination with an old vinyl recording, leading him to creatively interpret these timeless works.
Conductor and Cast
The Orchestra of the Greek National Opera will be conducted by Michael Hofstetter, known for his expertise and collaborations with prominent opera houses and festivals worldwide.
In a unique vocal challenge, the renowned American soprano Corinne Winters will portray both Iphigénies, praised for her electrifying stage presence.
Conductor: Michael Hofstetter
Stage director, sets: Dmitri Tcherniakov
Dramaturg: Tatiana Werestchagina
Costumes: Elena Zaytseva
Lighting: Gleb Filshtinsky
Fight director: Ran Arthur Braun
Chorus master: Agathangelos Georgakatos
Iphigénie en Aulide
Αgamemnon: Tassis Christoyannis
Clytemnestre: Véronique Gens
Iphigénie: Corinne Winters
Achille: Anthony Gregory
Patrocle: Nikolas Douros
Calchas: Petros Magoulas
Arcas: Georgios Papadimitriou
Diane: Soula Parassidis
Iphigénie en Tauride
Iphigénie: Corinne Winters
Thoas: Alexandre Duhamel
Oreste: Dionysios Sourbis
Pylade: Stanislas de Barbeyrac
Α priestess: Maria Mitsopoulou
Diane: Soula Parassidis
A Scythian / Minister of the Sanctuary: Georgios Papadimitriou
With the Orchestra and Chorus of the Greek National Opera
Don’t miss this extraordinary double bill of Iphigénie en Aulide and Iphigénie en Tauride—a captivating exploration of tragedy, family, and the haunting legacy of war. For tickets, click here.
