16 hours of opera. 4 performances spread over 8 days. Wagner's Ring of the Dwarves is reputed to be western societies longest and most complex opera. It was written over 130 years ago in Europe, using, but more often breaking, established opera conventions. Conventions that are well known in modern western movies. How many recognize Darth Vader's theme music, or who expects the music to become grand and menacing when the baddie enters the scene? All thanks to Wagner's Ring Cycle. The production budget was $AU20 million. The orchestra pit had to be enlarged to hold the 120 musicians, 3 Wagner Horns were commissioned at $10,000 each and Brunhilde is a London Diva with a fantastic voice. Apparently, there are people who fly around the world to see every ring cycle, payed $2000 a ticket, $200
... read more
