The Magic Flute is a popular opera composed by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. It was first performed in Vienna, Austria in 1791. The opera is known for its blend of comedic and serious elements, as well as its incorporation of Masonic symbolism. The story of The Magic Flute follows the adventures of Prince Tamino as he embarks on a quest to rescue the princess Pamina. Along the way, he encounters a number of colorful characters, including the bird catcher Papageno and the evil Queen of the Night. In September 2019, a new production of The Magic Flute premiered at the Metropolitan Opera in New York City.
Everyone has their favourite character from the film. For me it was the gleefully villainous Wicked Witch of the West that stole my heart. With just a mere 12 minutes of screen time, actress Margaret Hamilton birthed a screen icon. Each time I revisit Oz there’s nothing I love more than to watch the Wicked Witch of the West and her band of smartly dressed Flying Monkeys torment Dorothy and friends down the yellow brick road.
I m not the only one who holds the fictional land of Oz dear, the film has continued to top cinema-lovers polls since its revolutionary cinematic release in 1939. Each time I revisit Oz there s nothing I love more than to watch the Wicked Witch of the West and her band of smartly dressed Flying Monkeys torment Dorothy and friends down the yellow brick road.
In September 2019, a new production of The Magic Flute premiered at the Metropolitan Opera in New York City. This production was directed by Julie Taymor, best known for her work on the Broadway musical The Lion King. Taymor's production of The Magic Flute was highly stylized and visually stunning, featuring elaborate sets and costumes.
Are you a good witch or a bad witch?
Thankfully The Wizard of Oz always seemed to be on ‘council telly’ growing up over Christmas. With no flying snowmen in sight I would still happily take Oz over a rerun of The Snowman (even with the Bowie intro). I have fond memories straining my eyes watching the film on my Grannie’s tiny television, in awe as the screen filled with glorious Technicolor. I’m not the only one who holds the fictional land of Oz dear, the film has continued to top cinema-lovers polls since its revolutionary cinematic release in 1939.
Everyone has their favourite character from the film. For me it was the gleefully villainous Wicked Witch of the West that stole my heart. With just a mere 12 minutes of screen time, actress Margaret Hamilton birthed a screen icon. Each time I revisit Oz there’s nothing I love more than to watch the Wicked Witch of the West and her band of smartly dressed Flying Monkeys torment Dorothy and friends down the yellow brick road.
It’s crazy to think The Wicked Witch of the West has been scaring and delighting audiences for over 79 years. She didn’t need ruby-red slippers or a clumsy Scarecrow dance to appeal to audiences. Her overtly cruel, camp performance along with her costuming sealed her fate as one of cinemas most revered baddies. Hamilton’s on screen witch was visually iconic with thanks to the creative makeup from artist Jack Dawn who hand blended the legendary green body paint. Margaret Hamilton endured hours under the painful hot studio lights in the copper based green paint and prosthetics. The role had a lasting effect on the actress, specifically that of a greenish hue that lasted for months after shooting. Styling details such as the long green pointed fingernails echo the eerie long fingers of Nosferatu but also the elegant, fashionably poised manicured nails of the late 1930s. I wonder if she wore Revlon’s Cherries (or how about poppies) in the Snow? Quick reality check – the snow used during the poppies scene was of course everyone’s favourite multipurpose material – Asbestos!
Thankfully The Wizard of Oz always seemed to be on ‘council telly’ growing up over Christmas. With no flying snowmen in sight I would still happily take Oz over a rerun of The Snowman (even with the Bowie intro). I have fond memories straining my eyes watching the film on my Grannie’s tiny television, in awe as the screen filled with glorious Technicolor. I’m not the only one who holds the fictional land of Oz dear, the film has continued to top cinema-lovers polls since its revolutionary cinematic release in 1939.
The cast of the Metropolitan Opera's production of The Magic Flute included renowned singers such as Kathryn Lewek as the Queen of the Night and Charles Castronovo as Prince Tamino. The production received critical acclaim for its innovative staging and the strong performances of its cast members. The Magic Flute has remained a popular and enduring opera throughout the years. Its timeless themes of love, friendship, and the power of music continue to resonate with audiences around the world. Whether performed in Vienna or New York, the opera's enchanting melodies and magical story never fail to captivate and delight..
Reviews for "Captivating Audiences: The Magic Flute Takes New York"
1. John - ★☆☆☆☆ - I was really disappointed with the performance of "Magic Flute" in New York. The singing was subpar and the actors lacked passion and enthusiasm. The sets were dull and unimpressive, and the overall production felt amateurish. I had high expectations for this famous opera, but it fell flat for me. I wouldn't recommend it to anyone looking for a captivating and enjoyable theater experience.
2. Emily - ★★☆☆☆ - I had heard so much about "Magic Flute" and was excited to see it in New York, but I left feeling underwhelmed. The story itself was confusing and hard to follow, and the performances did not do justice to the famous opera. The costumes were lackluster, and the stage effects were minimal. I expected a more grand and enchanting experience, but unfortunately, it didn't live up to my expectations.
3. Michael - ★★☆☆☆ - I have seen several productions of "Magic Flute" before, but this one in New York was the least impressive. The lead singers lacked the power and range needed for these roles, and it made the performance feel lackluster. The choreography was also uninspiring, and the whole production felt like it was going through the motions instead of creating a magical and captivating experience. Overall, I was disappointed with this rendition and would not recommend it to others.
4. Sarah - ★★☆☆☆ - The "Magic Flute" performance in New York was a letdown for me. The pacing felt off, with some scenes dragging on while others felt rushed. The stage design and lighting were unremarkable, and the overall production lacked creativity and flair. The lead actors' voices were not as powerful or captivating as I had hoped, and it made it hard to fully immerse myself in the story. Overall, I found this performance to be mediocre and wouldn't recommend it to opera enthusiasts looking for a memorable experience.