Der Zwerg

Based on Oscar Wildes story The Birthday of the Infanta, Zemlinskys single-act opera Der Zwerg is the tragic tale of a dwarf who is presented at court, falls in love with the beautiful Donna Clara, but is ultimately forced to see himself as others see him and to die of a broken heart. Preceded by Schoenbergs Accompaniment to a Cinematographic Scene, Op. 34, Zemlinskys Romantic score is full of psychological intrigue. Is Der Zwerg a critique of societys superficiality? Is it the composers self-portrait in his doomed affair with Alma Schindler? Director Tobias Kratzers stunning, transparent production creates a space in which each character is thrown into sharp relief in this fine, noble and melancholy work.

Cast

Elena Tsallagova

Donna Clara, Infanta of Spain

Emily Magee

Ghita, her attendant

David Butt Philip

Der Zwerg

Mick Morris Mehnert

Der Zwerg (actor)

Philipp Jekal

Don Estoban, the chamberlain

Flurina Stucki

Maid

Amber Fasquelle

Maid

Maliu Vaahtoluoto

Maid

So Young Park

Companion

Kristina Häger

Companion