Magic Flute, The (Die Zauberflöte)

Mozart’s last stage work, Die Zauberflöte (The Magic Flute), was completed just two days before its premiere in Vienna on 30 September 1791. A masterpiece filled with enigmatic references to the Freemasons, an organization of which Mozart was a member, The Magic Flute would undoubtedly have made Mozart rich, but it opened less than three months before his death. SYNOPSIS: Ancient Egypt. The Queen of the Night is furious with High Priest Sarastro because he has taken away her daughter, Pamina. Tamino, a young Prince in search of adventure, is sent by the Queen to rescue her daughter. Tamino is joined by a merry bird-catcher, Papageno, who wears a feather dress as an aid to his profession. The Queen gives a magic golden flute to Tamino, to play in times of danger, and to his companion she gives a peal of bells. The pair are brought before Sarastro, who demonstrates that he is really doing right by keeping Pamina from her mother. Seeing that the pair are already in love, Sarastro promises Tamino and Ramina future happiness if they are willing to prove themselves worthy. The lovers agree, and go bravely through many ordeals that are placed in their way. Papageno accompanies Tamino in most of his adventures; and in all their times of difficulty, by the use of the magic flute and the peal of bells, they are able to conquer the dangers that beset them. The Magic Flute remains to this day one of the most beloved works in the operatic repertoire. Majestic, elegant and delicate, this opera represents Mozart at his finest, and includes both its famous Overture, and the infamous Queen of the Night’s aria, The vengeance of Hell boils in my heart.