HUNGARIAN STATE OPERA: THE NUTCRACKER December-January 2011-2012
 

The splendid neo-Renaissance Hungarian State Opera theatre can be considered as a showcase for the most creative talents in Hungarian society, in which music plays a prominent role. The opera house draws on a rich supply of local singers, directors, designers and musicians all capable of producing world-class performances. Native composers always feature in the opera season, offering works that are rarely seen beyond the borders of Hungary but are extremely engaging and rewarding nevertheless.

The opening performance of the Opera House was held in the neo-Renaissance building, the jewel of the avenue, in 1884 after nine years of construction. The staircase and the auditorium of the palace, designed by one of the best architects of those days Miklós Ybl, are decorated with frescos of eminent Hungarian painters such as Bertalan Székely, Mór Thán and Károly Lotz. The first director was Ferenc Erkel, Gustav Mahler held this post for several years, and Puccini directed the premiere of two of his operas here. Renowned guest conductors include Otto Klemperer, Sergio Failoni and Lamberto Gardelli. It is still one of the best opera houses in Europe. Well worth a visit, even for those who do not especially like operas.

The Nutcracker Ballet is based on the story ?The Nutcracker and the King of Mice? written by E.T.A. Hoffman. Although what is seen on the stage today is different in detail from the original story, the basic plot remains the same; The story of a young German girl who dreams of a Nutcracker Prince and a fierce battle against a Mouse King with seven heads.

When Marius Petipa had the idea to choreograph the story into a ballet, it was actually based on a revision by Alexander Dumas, a well known French author. His version reflects more of what we have come to love as the Nutcracker Ballet.

In 1892, the first showing of the Nutcracker took place at the Mariinsky Theatre of Russia, home of the Kirov Ballet. The Nutcracker made its way to Western Europe in the 1930?s and to America by 1940, performed by Ballet Russe.

Comments from Theo Hong who booked tickets with us "Gorgeous! Everything is pink marble and gold chandeliers and sweeping staircases, and the women all dress up in glamorous fur coats. The production was just as lavish, with elaborate sets, huge casts, and endless curtain calls - you should go if you get a chance!"

Budapest Opera tickets Hungarian State Opera tickets The Nutcracker Budapest Opera tickets.

Dates:

04/12/201
07/12/201
10/12/2011
15/12/2011
17/12/2011
23/12/2011
25/12/2011
26/12/2011
28/12/2011
29/12/2011
05/01/2012