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Salome

Richard Strauss

The biblical story of the step-daughter of Herod Antipas takes place in the year 30 BC. It has been dramatically developed many times as both drama and as opera versions. The most famous opera version is from the pen of the German composer Richard Strauss, which had its premiére on 9th December 1905 in Dresden, and which became a world-wide sensation. Strauss was immediately considered one of the most successful composers at the beginning of the 20th century.

The composer of the opera wrote it according to the German translation of the successful drama by the English dramatist, Oscar Wilde, from the year 1893.

Salome is physically attracted to the prophet Jochanaan (John the baptist) and wants him to kiss her. Jochanaan refuses, and tries to encourage her to live morally. The coming of Jesus Christ is announced. The ruler of Jerusalem, Herod, asks Salome to danc e the Dance of the seven veils for him. She agrees, on the condition that Herod will then fulfill her every wish. After the dance, Salome cold-bloodedly requests the head of the prophet Jochanaan. When Herod is unsuccessful in changing her mind about this wish, he reluctantly gives the order for the soldiers to bring what Salome has requested. In a state of ecstasy, she passionately kisses the dead prophet´s mouth. Herod finally gives the order to kill this sick woman.

Salome belongs among the most important and most difficult of operas of the 20th century. Even to this day, it is compelling thanks to its dramatic strength and Strauss´ excellent music. The role of Salome belongs among the most difficult soprano pieces of all opera literature.

Salome has only been studied in Pilsen once so far, in 1944. We present it in the German original, with Czech sub-titles.

Premiére 28th March 2009 in the Great theatre.