1. The Magic Flute. Mozart's last-performed opera was conceived as popular entertainment from is premiere in 1790, with its fairy-tale plot, theatrical effects, vernacular dialogue, and abundant comedy. Are the same qualities that made it popular then responsible for its being the third most often produced opera over two centuries later? In the first hour, we will look at key scenes from two relatively traditional productions to find an answer. Then in the second hour, we will sample three less usual productions to see how directors have approached the task of preventing a perhaps-too-familiar opera from becoming stale.

There is no need to do any preparation in advance. But I do advise reading the handout for a synopsis of the opera and some introductory information. If you want to print it out, use the folded version if you have a two-sided printer.

 
The script, videos, and images will be posted immediately after class.