Wiener Staatsoper Presents “Hänsel und Gretel” This Evening
Tonight, the Wiener Staatsoper will enchant audiences with a captivating performance of Engelbert Humperdinck’s beloved opera “Hänsel und Gretel.” This timeless tale follows the adventures of two siblings lost in a dark forest, leading them to a tempting gingerbread house inhabited by a wicked witch. Under the musical direction of axel Kober and the imaginative staging by Adrian Noble, the production promises to deliver a magical experience filled with stunning visuals and memorable music. With additional performances scheduled for December 28 and 30, 2024, and January 2, 2025, this opera is a perfect holiday treat for families and opera enthusiasts alike. For more details, visit the digital programme.
The vibrant world of opera is set to dazzle audiences in 2025 with a series of captivating performances across Europe. notable productions include Gioacchino Rossini’s enchanting “La Cenerentola,” scheduled for January 5, 10, and Febuary 1, and Hector berlioz’s monumental “Les Troyens,” premiering on January 18. In Linz,opera star Erwin schrott will mesmerize fans with a solo evening that bridges classical music and tango,showcasing his remarkable talent. Simultaneously occurring, in Berlin, the esteemed Herbert Blomstedt will lead the Berliner Philharmoniker in a concert that promises to resonate with musical humanity. Additionally, Hamburg is abuzz with plans for a new opera, backed by billionaire Klaus-michael Kühne, which could reshape the city’s cultural landscape. For more details and ticket details, visit the respective opera house websites.Klaus-Michael Kühne, the wealthiest German, is reportedly set to donate approximately €300 million for a new opera house in Hamburg, as confirmed in a recent interview. While this generous offer has sparked excitement, experts warn that the funding may not cover the entire project, especially considering the city’s need to develop infrastructure and ensure flood protection in the Hafencity area. As negotiations progress,the city faces the challenge of making this aspiring cultural project accessible to the public,raising questions about the long-term viability of such a significant investment.adele Thomas’s innovative staging of Verdi’s opera transforms the traditionally dark and ominous “Galgenberg” setting into a dimly lit alley, effectively capturing the essence of the American Civil War era. This fresh interpretation aligns with the narrative’s themes of isolation and societal judgment, as the character Amelia seeks ingredients for a spell in a location deemed “abominable.” The design, crafted by Hannah Clark, features a pavilion-like structure on a rotating stage, allowing for a seamless storytelling experience that remains true to the libretto. Meanwhile, in richard Strauss’s “der Rosenkavalier,” Hugo von Hofmannsthal’s complex characters, like the insightful Feldmarschallin, navigate a world that is both comedic and deeply reflective, showcasing the intricate interplay of love and deception. This dual exploration of operatic themes highlights the evolving landscape of contemporary theater.Angelina Jolie shines in the role of opera legend Maria Callas in Pablo Larraín’s latest biopic, “Maria,” making it a must-see film for the holiday season. This captivating portrayal is highlighted in the Christmas edition of the podcast “Ditt & Datt & Dittrich,” where hosts Verena and Ronny discuss why this film is the perfect festive recommendation for movie enthusiasts.Meanwhile, the Schwetzinger SWR Festspiele welcomes new artistic director Cornelia Bend, who shares her vision for the festival, and audiences in Zurich can enjoy a baroque experience with Handel’s “Messiah.” Additionally, the Stuttgart ballet presents a timeless rendition of “Romeo and Juliet,” showcasing the enduring legacy of John Cranko’s choreography. For more insights and details, check out the full articles linked above.Belgium’s opera scene is shining this holiday season with captivating performances in Brussels and Antwerp. The adaptation of Ingmar Bergman’s “Fanny and Alexander” in Brussels offers a unique theatrical experience, while Ersan Mondtag’s production of “Salome” in Antwerp promises to enthrall audiences with its dramatic flair. Meanwhile, in Kyiv, the National Operetta Theater celebrates its 90th anniversary, showcasing the resilience of art in wartime. Additionally, the upcoming film “The Seed of the Holy Fig Tree,” directed by Mohammad Rasulof, explores contemporary life in Iran through a poignant family narrative, set to premiere on December 26, 2024. This film, produced under both Iranian and German flags, reflects the director’s personal journey and the pressing realities faced by many in Iran today.Christopher Nolan is set to bring a fresh perspective to classical literature with his upcoming film adaptation of Homer’s “Odyssey.” Slated for a global release on July 17, 2026, this ambitious project promises to be a “mythical action epic,” as announced by Universal Pictures. Filming will take place across various international locations, showcasing Nolan’s signature cinematic style.Known for his previous works like ”Oppenheimer” and “Interstellar,” the acclaimed director aims to blend ancient storytelling with modern filmmaking techniques, potentially attracting both fans of classic literature and action cinema alike.Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting project.In a troubling escalation of violence, armed gangs have launched a deadly attack on Haiti’s largest hospital in Port-au-Prince, exacerbating the ongoing crisis of gang-related crime in the country. The incident, which involved gunfire at the crucial public health facility, highlights the increasing danger faced by both healthcare workers and patients amid a deteriorating security situation.As gang violence continues to rise, the haitian population is left vulnerable, with many calling for urgent intervention to restore safety and order. This latest attack underscores the urgent need for complete solutions to address the rampant lawlessness affecting daily life in Haiti.in the Central African Republic, the presence of Russian paramilitary groups has sparked a complex mix of admiration and fear among the local population. While some view these forces as protectors, many others live in silence, gripped by the terror of potential reprisals for speaking out against them. This duality highlights the precarious situation in the region, where the influence of foreign military actors complicates the already fragile security landscape. As tensions rise, the need for international attention and intervention becomes increasingly urgent to safeguard the rights and safety of civilians caught in this turmoil.Albania’s government is considering a year-long ban on TikTok following a tragic incident that has raised concerns about the platform’s potential to incite violence. authorities in Tirana are responding to fears that content shared on the popular video-sharing app may contribute to harmful behavior among users.This move reflects a growing trend among nations scrutinizing social media’s role in public safety and the impact of digital content on societal norms. As the debate over online regulation intensifies, Albania’s decision could set a precedent for other countries grappling with similar issues.In a thought-provoking exploration of the art of idleness, Michaela Krützen delves into the lives of iconic characters like Fitzgerald’s Jay Gatsby and Betty Draper from “Mad Men,” revealing how their experiences reflect a timeless struggle with boredom and the search for meaning. Set against the backdrop of the 1920s and the 1960s, Krützen’s analysis highlights the cultural shifts in attitudes toward leisure and productivity, prompting readers to reconsider the value of time spent in seemingly unproductive pursuits. This insightful examination not only sheds light on the characters’ existential dilemmas but also invites a broader conversation about the meaning of idleness in our fast-paced modern world.Read now
Rediscovering Passion: The Journey of Jazz Pianist Stefan Rusconi – Renowned jazz pianist Stefan Rusconi faced a life-altering tragedy that stripped him of his passion for music, leaving him in despair. Though, his journey back to the keys reveals a profound story of resilience and the healing power of art. As he navigates the complexities of loss and rediscovery,Rusconi’s experience resonates with anyone who has grappled with the fragility of creativity. This compelling narrative not only highlights the struggles of an artist but also celebrates the transformative nature of music in overcoming personal challenges.Japan’s latest “Word of the Year” reflects a growing nostalgia for the 1980s, a time when the nation felt at its peak.This sentiment is captured in a popular television series that transports a man from that era into modern times, revealing the contrasts and challenges faced by both generations. As viewers engage with this storyline, it sparks discussions about cultural identity and the evolution of societal values in Japan. The series not only entertains but also serves as a mirror, prompting audiences to reflect on their past and present.Vdsj8toJh6g3puqEhNiRdL3EfKImqQib8GFBcBEWbKw9_nhsfy82DLtPFIS6s21fOjImbtONBXrTxcl6yGC_ZUD8CYs5nhqIqKxHec50KqIypt8YrttGi2M0sTSE0MTL3oHDVRH9ip6hFZzti6WONGX0GqWBxYvLfVmn0JY_s_ZQw.g”>Jetzt lesen
Man muss sich weit von der Erde entfernen, um sie noch einmal neu entdecken zu können: Samantha Harvey schickt in ihrem Roman «Umlaufbahnen» sechs Menschen in den Weltraum und öffnet den Lesern die Augen für eine gefährdete Schönheit.
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Zitat Ende „Neue Zürcher Zeitung“
Politik
Österreich: Nehammer optimistisch: Einigung schon in Sicht?
Bundeskanzler karl Nehammer (ÖVP) erwartet eine Einigung auf eine neue Regierung im Jänner. „Es geht gut voran“, meinte er in der ORF-sendung „Licht ins Dunkel“ am Dienstag zu den Koalitionsverhandlungen.
Österreich
Gewessler: „Der Moment der Grünen wird wieder kommen zum Mitregieren“
Es gelte den Backlash bei Umweltthemen zu bekämpfen und dazu auch die Grünen neu aufzustellen, sagt die scheidende grüne Umweltministerin Leonore Gewessler.
Kurier.at
Niederösterreich
Früherer Landesrat Hans-Jörg Schimanek gestorben
Ein Urgestein der niederösterreichischen FPÖ ist verstorben: Hans-Jörg Schimanek war der erste freiheitliche Landesrat in Niederösterreich. Insgesamt war er in seinem Leben bei vier Parteien. Schimanek wurde 84 Jahre alt. Hans-Jörg Schimanek war von 1964 bis 1977 mitarbeiter im aktuellen Dienst und in der Sportredaktion des ORF. Dann war er Mitglied der SPÖ, trat aber aus und gründete eine Bürgerliste in Langenlois (Bezirk Krems). So wurde er dort nach den Gemeinderatswahlen Umweltstadtradt. Später wechselte Schimanek zur FPÖ. Von 1993 bis 1999 war er der erste FPÖ-Landesrat in Niederösterreich, danach war er bis 2000 Abgeordneter im landtag. Zwei Jahre lang war er auch landesparteiobmann, ehe er nach Wien wechselte.
Mit Hans-Jörg Schimanek verbindet mich ein persönliches Erlebnis: Ich war vor vielen Jahren mit meiner Frau bei einer Weinverkostung in Groß-weikersdorf. Keineswegs im Suff (mir wurde nie der Führerschein abgenommen) verlor ich dort meine Autoschlüssel. Verzweifelt aber ebenso vergebens suchten wir. Als die Hoffnungslosigkeit offenbar wurde, baten wir andere Besucher, uns Richtung Wien zu einem öffentlichen Verkehrsmittel mitzunehmen. Die Bereitschaft war endenwollend, besser gesagt, wir ernteten nur ausreden. Dann kam der Landesrat Hans Jörg Schimanek mit seinem Chauffeur und Dienstwagen daher,spendete den üblichen Beitrag an die örtliche Musikkapelle (Politiker haben ein dafür ein Spesenpauschale,aber Schimanek war dafür bekannt,aus Eigenmitteln aufzurunden). Meine Frau hatte den Mut, den Landesrat um Hilfe zu bitten. Der nahm uns dann mit und erzählte während der Fahrt, dass er nie ohne Chauffeur unterwegs sei, weil ein Politiker unter besonderer Beobachtung steht und nach einer Weinverkostung sofort ein polizist aus der Hecke springen würde, um einen Alkotest durchzuführen. Schimanek wohnte in Floridsdorf, für Ortsunkundige sei erwähnt, dass von Großweikersdorf der Weg nach Wien über Stockerau/ Korneuburg führOn Christmas Eve, a festive spirit turned chaotic in Freiburg as a customary Christmette was abruptly halted due to intense protests against a German archbishop. The uproar stemmed from the dismissal of a beloved cathedral choir master, igniting a wave of discontent among attendees.Meanwhile, in a lighter incident, a man dressed as santa Claus lost his driving license after being caught riding a moped while intoxicated, highlighting the importance of responsible celebrations during the holiday season. these events reflect the diverse ways communities engage with tradition and the unexpected challenges that can arise during festive times.Volkswagen is facing a significant crisis as it announces plans to close several plants in Germany, a move that reflects the deepening challenges within the automotive industry. VW’s brand chief executive,Thomas Schäfer,highlighted concerns over productivity at German locations,emphasizing the need for drastic measures to remain competitive in a rapidly evolving market. This decision comes amid increasing pressure from electric vehicle competitors and a broader industry shift towards sustainable transportation. as the auto sector grapples with these transformations, the implications for Germany’s economy, where the automotive industry accounts for a substantial portion of output, are profound [1[1[1[1][3[3[3[3].
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