Being named Wagner can be simultaneously a boon and a burden, acknowledges the great-granddaughter of the renowned German composer.
Katharina Wagner states that she has learned to cope with both the advantages and disadvantages inherited from her renowned ancestor.
A distinguished artistic director in her own merit, Wagner is set to showcase 'Lohengrin'. Barcelona’s Teatre Liceu from 17 -30 March.
This operatic love story revolves around its titular protagonist and draws inspiration from an old German medieval tale. A enigmatic rider appears via a vessel steered by a swan to aid Elsa von Brabant, a high-born lady facing adversity. They wed, yet he imposes a ban on questioning his past; eventually, she breaks this vow out of curiosity, causing him to depart forevermore.
This piece is most recognized for its prelude—the famous Bridal Chorus—that frequently accompanies wedding ceremonies, along with the Grail Story. Lohengrin serves as the central figure; however, Elsa exhibits a robust personality as well.
Wagner's production in Barcelona will include an unexpected turn in the narrative, however, Euronews Culture has been bound to confidentiality...
The opera made its debut in 1850; however, Wagner couldn’t be present at the premiere because he was in exile following his involvement in the May Rebellion of Dresden, which was among the final wave of revolts sweeping through various parts of Europe in 1848.
In 1861, the composer witnessed a complete performance of his work. More than 150 years later, his great-granddaughter still feels that the opera preserves much of its initial allure. "This piece holds deep significance for numerous individuals," says Katharina when speaking with Euronews Culture from her workspace within the Teatre Liceu. She adds poetically, "One could view it like a fairy tale where the protagonist simply emerges. Yet, we see him appearing for a particular purpose."
He states, 'Don’t inquire about my identity, and don’t question my origins.' This is peculiar, wouldn't you say? The work also revolves around themes of trust; however, it’s quite odd that such questions should be off-limits. Who exactly is this individual? From what place did he originate? What schemes might he have in mind?
The artistic director holds numerous favorites from her great-grandfather’s extensive repertoire of works: "My preferences vary depending on how I feel personally. I particularly love 'Tristan and Isolde' as well as 'Parsifal.' Both pieces boast magnificent composition and splendid melodies," she remarks.
Opera enthusiasts will recognize Wagner's renowned works, yet numerous individuals might also recall the composer’s pieces from movies like Apocalypse Now , featuring the renowned Ride of the Valkyriers.
Katharina mentions that she often hears people say Wagner is known for composing lengthy operas. She expresses her wish that more individuals would make an effort to watch an opera as they offer a unique experience.
The individual, who is 46 years old, serves as the artistic director for the Bayreuth Festival, an annual event dedicated to showcasing the works of her great-grandfather. Additionally, she resides in the German town of Bayreuth, where much focus is placed on honoring the legacy of this composer.
The upcoming year will signify the 150th anniversary of the festival, promising an extraordinary celebration. This will also be the inaugural performance of 'Rienzi' at Bayreuth. Additionally, Christian Thielemann conducting 'The Ring Cycle' will be one of the major highlights.
The festivities will commence with Beethoven’s 9th Symphony. Regarding the Wagner surname, Katharina comments that it is a mixed blessing: "The issue is, when you come from that family, you have no choice over it. Certainly, at times it can be advantageous, but at others, it can be detrimental." Indeed, the Wagner name has faced backlash due to the composer’s documented antisemitism and his notorious supporter, Adolf Hitler.
In 2009, Katharina mentioned that there was a duty to address their family’s ties to the Nazis. She announced that her own personal archive as well as those belonging to certain relatives would be accessible for examination. However, private records from other branches of the family remain inaccessible to the general public.
In 1850, Wagner authored an essay titled "Judaism in Music," which was viewed as having antisemitic undertones. Adolf Hitler endorsed the Bayreuth Festival and became friends with Winifred Wagner, who was born in Britain and married to Wagner's son, Siegfried. Their relationship enabled the festival to maintain considerable autonomy throughout the Nazi era. Following World War II, Winifred Wagner faced charges for her association with the Nazis.
"Richard Wagner penned appalling essays about Jewish individuals. Naturally, I don’t endorse those opinions," states Katharina, unafraid to address her family’s troubling history: "No, I’m not hesitant when it comes to facing the past; it holds significant importance for me. Absolutely, I have no weariness regarding this matter. Not at all. Moreover, I am aware that some members of my family share this sentiment," she explains.
When it comes to music, Katharina genuinely enjoys staging operas: "It’s essential to love what you do professionally. And I certainly do. To be frank, the aspect of my job that excites me the most as a director happens during those initial meetings where we discuss our vision with just a few people," she shares with a grin.
At the conclusion of the day, all the small details and components come together, allowing us to build the stage collectively. Following that, we add the direction, vocalists, lighting, and attire. It’s quite an amazing experience. In my opinion, performing collaboratively on stage offers some of the most rewarding instances in this profession.
'Lohengrin' by Richard Wagner at the Gran Teatre Liceu in Barcelona from March 17 to March 30.
