Verdi: Ernani (Bregenz Festival, 2023, Directed by: de Beer)

“Ernani” is a gripping drama about love and revenge by Giuseppe Verdi. Written in his distinctive style, it abounds in moving arias, stirring choruses and captivating ensemble scenes. The rebel leader Ernani recognises the Spanish King Carlo as his father’s murderer and plots his revenge. Both men love Elvira—as does the elderly Silva, whom she is to marry. Director Lotte de Beer and her set and costume designer Christof Hetzer turn their attention to this fictional story, which evokes the 16th century. In this production, conducted by Enrique Mazzola, they display their rich scenic imagination. The press, in turn, has praised Mazzola for creating magical moments on the podium with the Vienna Symphony Orchestra.