Few cantata works – lyrical poems in various movements with instrumental accompaniment – are as well known as that of Johann Sebastian Bach. But how does one approach such authoritative material? Beginning this Saturday (14.10.2023), the Neuköllner Oper will present what is probably the best possible variant of a reinterpreted approach: “Der Teufel im Lift” is based on music by J.S. Bach, with text by John von Düffel and the lautten compagney. It pours onto the stage full of humor and suspense. And that’s what it’s all about: The “light-seer” Blanche (what else could her name be?), the brain specialist Prof. Dr. Sanchez, the young journalist Raquel and a helpless and restless porter meet at night in the lobby of the “Hotel Heaven.” When a mysterious stranger falls from the elevator, confronting the travelers with their deepest and most dramatic longings, fears and surreal fantasies. Is it a fallen angel? Is it Lucifer, the devil, as the mounted cantatas say? “Say, how do you feel about religion” – or about science? Suddenly the eternal Gretchen question is in the room, suddenly it’s all at stake: past and future, life and death, meaning and faith. Gripping, whirling, erratic and thrilling, the piece quite literally takes the audience with it – one or two chorales can be explicitly sung along to. Rarely has Bach felt so close.
Text: Hilka Dirks / Photos: Thomas Koy & Neuköllner Oper
Neuköllner Oper, Karl-Marx-Str.131–133, 12043 Berlin–Neukölln; map
Tue 15–19h.
Teufel im Lift, information and tickets available here.
@neukoellneroper
