Opera in three acts | Libretto by William Plomer

Text by Händl Klaus, freely based on Thomas Mann’s short story The Deceived (1953)

Inspired by Thomas Mann’s final short story The Deceived, librettist Händl Klaus and composer Vito Žuraj have created a haunting opera of gripping psychological depth and luminous musical power. A woman falls in love with a man young enough to be her son and believes herself miraculously rejuvenated—until, at the height of her happiness, she is confronted with a terminal diagnosis. Love and mortality collide with elemental force. In this acclaimed production (»Uraufführung des Jahres 2023«, Opernwelt), director Brigitte Fassbaender brings this profoundly human drama to life with great courage and subtle restraint. Joined by a superb cast, she crafts an unforgettable meditation on desire, illusion, and farewell.

Aurelia — Bianca Andrew

Anna — Karolina Bengtsson

Ken — Michael Porter

Dr Muthesius — Alfred Reiter

Edgar — Jarrett Porter

Conductor — Michael Wendeberg

Stage Director — Brigitte Fassbaender