The State Opera was able to claim one of the main prizes with the victory in the category “Best Male Lead” by veteran Michael Volle as Hans Sachs in Wagner’s “Meistersinger von Nürnberg”. In addition, Kate Lindsey was honored for her performance in “Il ritorno d’Ulisse in patria” and “Ariadne auf Naxos” for the supporting actresses. The Volksoper, on the other hand, won in the categories “Male Talent” (Pablo Santa Cruz) and “Set Design” (Julian Crouch for “Orpheus in the Underworld”). And as a conciliatory moment, the special “Youth Project” prize went to both houses.
Linz has reason to be happy about the women’s category – or rather the State Theater there and its ensemble member Erica Eloff. The South African-born soprano was honored as best actress for her interpretation of Eva in the “Meistersingers” there and Marie-Marietta in Korngold’s “Die tote Stadt”. According to the expert jury chaired by Heinz Sichrovsky, the best overall musical production also came from Linz – in the form of “Natascha, Pierre and the Great Comet of 1812”.
The Theater an der Wien also took home two trophies. “La Périchole” directed by Nikolaus Habjan secured the title of best operetta, while host Stefan Herheim was honored as best director for “The Cunning Little Vixen.” And finally, last year’s production at the Salzburg Festival, Bohuslav Martinů’s rarely performed “Greek Passion,” was not only honored as the best overall opera production, but also its conductor Maxime Pascal.
In addition to the regular prizes, there were also a number of special awards this year, most of which were announced in advance of the awards gala. In addition to the old master Harald Serafin (lifetime achievement) and star soprano Asmik Grigorian (Grand Jury Prize), Jedermann actor Philipp Hochmair can also look forward to receiving one (crossover).
(S E R V I C E – www.musiktheaterpreis.at)
2024-09-01 10:02:21