The Utopia Opera Presents DER FREISCHÜTZ This Weekend

This weekend, March 21 and 22, Utopia Opera presents the rarely-performed German operatic gem, Der Freischütz by Carl Maria von Weber (1786-1826). One of the first operas of the German romantic tradition, the fully staged production will be performed with a 20-piece orchestra at the Ida K. Lang Recital Hall at Hunter College (695 Park Avenue). Utopia founder and artistic director, William Remmers, conducts and directs both shows.

Der Freischütz (The Freeshooter) is based on a 14th-century German folktale about a marksman Kaspar, who makes a pact with the Devil for seven magic bullets. Kaspar finds his potential 'Freeshooter' in the lovesick Max, who must pass a test of marksmanship before he can marry his betrothed, Agathe. Fearing he will not pass the test, Max is tempted by Kaspar to enter into a contract with the Devil. The war between Heaven and Hell makes itself apparent through a series of increasingly disturbing omens, causing Agathe to call upon divine providence for the salvation of Max's soul and her own.

As Remmers explains, "Der Freischütz deals with the dangers of blind tradition, superstition, and fear. If money is considered 'the root of all evil,' then perhaps fear is 'the root of all hatred.' In today's world, where violence and terror seem to be on a ceaseless incline, it is refreshing to find a story that tells us to put down our guns and take a pacifistic approach; a story that posits that love really can conquer all."

Der Freischütz premiered on June 18, 1821 at the Schauspielhaus Berlin and went on to international acclaim with productions in Vienna, London and Paris. With music inspired by German folk tunes and an emphasis on the supernatural, the work influenced practically all subsequent German operatic composers, including Richard Strauss, Meyerbeer and Wagner. Despite its significance in the operatic canon, Der Freischütz is rarely performed in the United States. New York City Opera performed it in 1981 and the Metropolitan Opera not since 1972. The last fully staged production in New York City was an English language version by the Bronx Opera in 2001. Utopia's production will be performed in German with English dialogue and subtitles.

About Utopia Opera

Utopia Opera was founded in 2011 by artistic and musical director William Remmers. Striving to present the most entertaining operatic performances possible (for audiences and performers alike) while also maintaining a high standard of musical integrity, Utopia Opera is quickly establishing itself as a young and vibrant addition to New York City's vast operatic landscape. Its company members, including its founder and artistic director, are mainly comprised of artists in their 20s. Their lively enthusiasm and desire to collaborate permeates the whole company.

In addition to providing young singers with performance opportunities, Utopia aims to share opera with a general audience and to reveal its modern relevance. A central part of that mission is realized through giving its audience and performers a stake in the direction of the company. For example, the company's 2013-14 season was largely chosen through votes cast on its Facebook page, with fans casting ballots for Gilbert & Sullivan'sPatience, Massenet's Don Quixote, Der Freischütz and Verdi's Falstaff, which will be presented in June also at the Ida K. Lang Recital at Hunter College. Voting for 2014-15 has been completed and the new season will open in September with Carlisle Floyd's Susannah. By trusting its operagoers, Utopia has fostered a devoted fan base, which has grown to over 500 Facebook fans in the past three years.

Tickets ($20 suggested donation; $5 minimum cash only) are available at the door. To reserve in advance, email tickets@utopiaopera.org with your name, performance choice, and amount of seats to reserve.

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