"Billy Budd" - Lost on the high seas

When Benjamin Britten's Billy Budd was first performed at the Vienna State Opera in 2001, the work was hardly known in German-speaking countries. The premiere was poorly attended and despite discounted tickets, many seats remained empty. But after the final curtain, it was clear that this was a unique masterpiece and an outstanding production, both scenically and musically. Positive word of mouth and excellent reviews ensured that the second performance was sold out. Since then, the play, like the production, has become a cult.

Billy Budd is exceptional in the history of musical theater: an opera without women, without a classic love story - but by no means without love. This is reflected in the innocent and enthusiastic young sailor Billy, who serves on the English warship Indomitable. However, his radiant character attracts the hatred of the master-at-arms Claggart, who wrongly accuses Billy of mutiny out of malice. When Billy is unable to defend himself because he stutters in stressful situations, he kills Claggart in a fit of despair. Although Captain Vere is convinced of Billy's innocence, he is forced to condemn him to death by hanging - a decision that haunts him for the rest of his life.

Now, after a break of over twelve years, the work returns to the repertoire of the Vienna State Opera in Willy Decker's celebrated production - with a new cast. The up-and-coming British baritone Huw Montague Rendall will make his house debut in the title role, while the celebrated Gregory Kunde will appear as Captain Vere and Brindley Sherratt as the diabolical Claggart. Renowned British conductor Mark Wigglesworth will make his house debut at the conductor's desk and will delight the audience with his passionate interpretation.