Tannhäuser: Deutsche Oper Berlin – Usher Hall
Sitting from 6 pm - 10 pm is a big ask for an audience. It’s an even bigger ask for an orchestra and singers. Below me, from my balcony, I could see a sea of white heads. I think it takes maturity to know this will be worth it. The majority down there are probably Munro climbers - folk who know it is worth the trek. Sitting through a Wagner opera (on stage or in concert) is a statement of love.
Wagner is bold. He’s brassy. He’s massively dramatic - employing harps and I’m a bit of a lover of those things. I am a novice to Tannhäuser, and it did not disappoint.
I was truly impressed with all the performers. Together, they comprised: chorus and orchestra of the Deutch Oper Berlin and musicians from the Royal Scottish National Orchestra. Sir Donald Runnicles conducted while Jeremy Bines...