Viennese Blood | Essener Philharmonie
Aalto Musiktheater Presents “Viennese Blood” for Strauss’s 200th Birthday
Table of Contents
- Aalto Musiktheater Presents “Viennese Blood” for Strauss’s 200th Birthday
- “Viennese Blood” at Aalto Musiktheater: A Deep Dive into Strauss’s Operetta
- What is “Viennese Blood”?
- What is the story of “Viennese Blood”?
- Were is “Viennese Blood” playing?
- Why is Aalto Musiktheater presenting “Viennese Blood”?
- What kind of music is featured in “Viennese Blood”?
- Who is directing this production of “Viennese Blood”?
- Who is Nikolaus Habjan?
- Where else has Nikolaus Habjan worked?
- What is a “pasticcio” operetta?
- What is the significance of vienna in “Viennese Blood”?
- What makes this production of “viennese Blood” unique?
“Viennese blood! Own juice, full of power, full of embers…” These words encapsulate the spirit of Johann Strauss’s operetta, “Viennese Blood,” now playing at the Aalto Musiktheater. The story revolves around Countess Gabriele, who, feeling her husband Count Zedlau lacks “Viennese blood,” distances herself. However, Zedlau transforms into a lively man, pursuing both the dancer Franziska Cagliari and Pepi Pleininger, the girlfriend of his friend Josef.
Gabriele’s return sets off a series of diplomatic and erotic complications, fueled by the intoxicating effect of Viennese blood amidst vineyards and waltz melodies.
A Celebration of Vienna Thru Music
To commemorate Johann Strauss’s 200th birthday, the Aalto Musiktheater presents this operetta, a musical monument to Vienna. First performed in 1899, the score incorporates nearly 30 of Strauss’s works, including waltzes, polkas, and quadrilles. The result is a highly entertaining pasticcio operetta featuring melodies like “An der schönen Blauen Donau” (The Beautiful blue Danube) and “There is a Remasuri,” transporting audiences to Vienna during the time of the Vienna Congress.
Nikolaus Habjan Directs Strauss’s Operetta
Austrian director, puppeteer, and artist Nikolaus Habjan, a triple Nestroy award winner, directs this production. Habjan, whose work has been seen at the Bavarian State Opera, the Theater an der Vienna, the Burgtheater in Vienna, and the Schauspielhaus Zurich, brings his imaginative staging to Strauss’s final operetta, capturing the magic and charm of Vienna in the Ruhr area. This follows his previous work, “The Carnival in Rome.”
“Viennese Blood” at Aalto Musiktheater: A Deep Dive into Strauss’s Operetta
What is “Viennese Blood”?
“Viennese Blood” (Wiener Blut in German) is an operetta by Johann Strauss II. It’s currently being presented at the Aalto Musiktheater. The operetta, first performed in 1899, is a lively and entertaining pasticcio, meaning it incorporates melodies from various of Strauss’s works. The essence of the operetta is captured in the opening phrase, “Viennese blood! Own juice, full of power, full of embers…”
What is the story of “Viennese Blood”?
The story revolves around the Countess Gabriele, and her husband, Count Zedlau. Gabriele believes her husband lacks “Viennese blood,” causing her to distance herself. However, Zedlau transforms into a lively man and pursues both the dancer Franziska Cagliari, and Pepi Pleininger, who is the girlfriend of Zedlau’s friend, Josef. the plot thickens when gabriele returns. This sets off a series of comedic complications fuelled by romantic intrigues.
Were is “Viennese Blood” playing?
“Viennese Blood” is currently playing at the Aalto Musiktheater.
Why is Aalto Musiktheater presenting “Viennese Blood”?
The Aalto Musiktheater is presenting “viennese Blood” to commemorate Johann Strauss’s 200th birthday. This production serves as a musical monument to the iconic composer’s legacy.
What kind of music is featured in “Viennese Blood”?
The score incorporates nearly 30 of Strauss’s works, including waltzes, polkas, and quadrilles. Expect to hear familiar and beloved melodies, including “An der schönen blauen Donau” (The Beautiful Blue Danube).
Who is directing this production of “Viennese Blood”?
The operetta is directed by Nikolaus Habjan.
Who is Nikolaus Habjan?
Nikolaus habjan is an Austrian director, puppeteer, and artist.He is a triple Nestroy award winner. His imaginative staging brings strauss’s final operetta to life.
Where else has Nikolaus Habjan worked?
Habjan’s work has been seen at prestigious venues,including:
- Bavarian State Opera
- Theater an der Wien
- Burgtheater in Vienna
- Schauspielhaus Zurich
What is a “pasticcio” operetta?
A “pasticcio” operetta is one that incorporates music from various sources,primarily other works by the same composer.In the case of “Viennese Blood,” the production uses manny of Strauss’s compositions to create a full and entertaining show.
What is the significance of vienna in “Viennese Blood”?
Vienna is central to the operetta’s theme, showcasing the city’s spirit, culture, and the intoxicating effect attributed to ”Viennese blood.” The story is set during the Vienna Congress, fully immersing the audience in the period.
What makes this production of “viennese Blood” unique?
This production is directed by Nikolaus Habjan, known for his innovative and imaginative direction. His unique staging aims to capture the charm and magic of Vienna within the Ruhr area. This approach sets it apart from other productions.
Here’s a brief summary of the key elements of the production:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Opera House | Aalto Musiktheater |
| Composer | Johann Strauss II |
| Director | Nikolaus Habjan |
| Musical Highlights | Includes waltzes, polkas, and quadrilles, including ”An der schönen Blauen Donau” |
| theme | A festivity of Vienna and it’s spirit. |
