One of Mozart's rarely heard favourite works returns to the stage with Szabolcs Brickner in the title role, featuring new cast members Artúr Szeleczki and Zita Szemere, conducted by Ádám Cser, in András Almási-Tóth's 2023 production. The opera Idomeneo, re di Creta will be performed five times during the season between 24 May and 8 June 2025 at the Hungarian State Opera.
Mozart considered Idomeneo, King of Crete one of his major works, yet it remains a rarely performed piece that has only in recent decades found its rightful place in the international operatic repertoire. The opera’s father-son conflict parallels the composer’s own life, offering an exciting and timeless message. The fates of the other characters, too, present a gripping and brutal psychological drama akin to many ancient tales, while the composer’s unbridled, pioneering musical style intriguingly blends the operatic traditions of Italy and France of the time.
Returning from the Trojan War, Idomeneo, caught in a violent sea storm, desperately vows to sacrifice the first person he meets upon landing in Crete if Neptune spares his life. Upon arrival, that first person turns out to be his own son, Idamante, who is loved by two princesses staying at the royal court: Electra and Ilia, the captured daughter of the Trojan king. To save his son, Idomeneo tasks him with escorting Electra home, but Neptune, seeing the king's reluctance to fulfil his promise, unleashes a destructive monster on Crete…
In his 2023 production, artistic director András Almási-Tóth explores how the experience of war alters Idomeneo’s perception of life and death, particularly when his son’s life is at stake, and how he reevaluates his own existence as he loses control over the unfolding events. The title role is once again portrayed with striking intensity by Szabolcs Brickner. Laura Topolánszky (Elettra) and Ninh Duc Hoang Long (Arbace) also return to their former roles. The lovers are now played by new cast members Artúr Szeleczki (Idamante) and Zita Szemere (Ilia), with Idamante being heard in a tenor version rather than the traditional mezzo-soprano breeches role. The Hungarian State Opera Orchestra and Chorus (chorus director: Gábor Csiki) perform under the baton of Ádám Cser this season.
The revival of Idomeneo, re di Creta promises a rare opportunity to discover a multifaceted, psychologically nuanced masterpiece. Mozart’s genius is brought to life through superb musical execution and outstanding vocal performances, all set in a visually captivating production. The set is designed by Sebastian Hannak and costumes by Richárd Márton, long-time collaborators of András Almási-Tóth. Video materials are created by Zsombor Czeglédi, and the choreography by Noémi Kulcsár is performed by the Hungarian National Ballet.
Idomeneo, re di Creta will be on the programme of the Hungarian State Opera on 24 & 30 May, 1, 6 & 8 June 2025.
Photo by Valter Berecz
