Articles

Two nights at the Prague opera

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“Opera is where a guy gets stabbed in the back, and instead of dying, he sings.”  -Robert Burns

Anyone who's been to an opera can probably relate to the above quote; the world of opera is one in which anything is possible, so long as someone can sing about it.

With opera in mind, UPCES has arranged for two excursions to the Prague opera at the city's two most famous and beautiful theatres. Fall 2011 students can choose to attend either night, or both.

On Monday, November 21st, UPCES students are invited to a performance of Aida, Giuseppe Verdi’ s paramount opera. Set in ancient Egypt, this opera tells the story of the Egyptian chieftain Rhadames and his love for the slave Aida. This opera will take place at Prague's National Theatre, undoubtedly the most famous theatre in the Czech Republic, and arguably the most beautiful.

Next up is an UPCES trip to see one of Mozart's most beloved operas, The Magic Flute, on Wednesday, November 23rd. The Magic Flute is at its core a fairy tale for both adults and children, full of Masonic symbolism. Its music, some of the greatest in all opera, ranges from simple, folk-like tunes (such as Papageno's "Ein Vogelfaenger bin ich ja") to the raging virtuosity of the Queen of the Night's "Der Hoelle Rache."

The performance of The Magic Flute will take place at the Estates Theatre, Prague's most storied performance hall and the one Mozart considered to be his favorite. It is also the only one left standing where he actually performed his operas. In fact, two of his operas premiered in this very building. Film buffs will recognize the theatre as the setting for Milos Forman's film Amadeus.

DETAILS:

Date: Monday and Wednesday, November 21st/23rd
Meeting at the theatres at 6pm
Attire: Dressy-casual to semi-formal
RSVP by e-mail or on the UPCES Facebook Page Event page