Composer

:

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart

Genre

:

Opera

Style

:

Opera

Compose Date

:

1786

Average_duration

:

39:14

Movement_count

:

5

Movement ....

"Der Schauspieldirektor" is a one-act comic opera composed by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart in 1786. The libretto was written by Gottlieb Stephanie, a court official in Vienna. The opera was commissioned by Emperor Joseph II to celebrate the opening of a new theater in Vienna. The plot revolves around the character of Frank, the director of a struggling theater company, who is tasked with casting two actresses for the upcoming season. The two actresses, Madame Herz and Mademoiselle Silberklang, are both talented but have very different personalities and demands. The conflict arises when they both demand to be the star of the show, leading to a hilarious competition between the two. The opera is known for its witty and satirical portrayal of the theater world, as well as its commentary on the role of art in society. It features several musical numbers, including a duet between the two actresses, a quartet with Frank and the theater's financial backer, and a final ensemble piece. "Der Schauspieldirektor" premiered on February 7, 1786, at the newly built Theater auf der Wieden in Vienna. The opera was paired with another one-act opera, "The Impresario," also composed by Mozart and with a libretto by Stephanie. The two operas were performed together as a double bill, with "The Impresario" serving as a prologue to "Der Schauspieldirektor." The opera is composed in the style of a singspiel, a popular form of German-language opera that combines spoken dialogue with musical numbers. The music is characterized by Mozart's signature melodic and harmonic style, with lively and playful melodies and intricate vocal harmonies. Despite its initial success, "Der Schauspieldirektor" fell out of favor in the 19th century and was rarely performed. However, it has experienced a resurgence in popularity in recent years, with many modern productions emphasizing its satirical and comedic elements.

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