Der Zwerg

Based on Oscar Wildes story The Birthday of the Infanta, Zemlinskys single-act opera Der Zwerg is the tragic tale of a dwarf who is presented at court, falls in love with the beautiful Donna Clara, but is ultimately forced to see himself as others see him and to die of a broken heart. Preceded by Schoenbergs Accompaniment to a Cinematographic Scene, Op. 34, Zemlinskys Romantic score is full of psychological intrigue. Is Der Zwerg a critique of societys superficiality? Is it the composers self-portrait in his doomed affair with Alma Schindler? Director Tobias Kratzers stunning, transparent production creates a space in which each character is thrown into sharp relief in this fine, noble and melancholy work.

• Tobias KratzerDirector

• Elena TsallagovaDonna Clara, Infanta of Spain
• Emily MageeGhita, her attendant
• David Butt PhilipDer Zwerg
• Mick Morris MehnertDer Zwerg (actor)
• Philipp JekalDon Estoban, the chamberlain
• Flurina StuckiMaid
• Amber FasquelleMaid
• Maliu VaahtoluotoMaid
• So Young ParkCompanion
• Kristina HägerCompanion