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Explore the rich history and captivating story of Salome inspired by Christian mythology. Discover how artists like Oscar Wilde and Richard Strauss brought this tale to life, causing sensations like the banning of the opera at the Met. Delve into Salome's twisted desires, the dramatic dance, and the chilling climax of her wish for John the Baptist's head. Experience the intense vocals and demanding music of this one-act opera that challenges even Wagnerian sopranos. Witness the electrifying performance by leading soprano Karita Mattila and the stellar cast bringing the characters to life. Read critiques that vividly describe the production, comparing different renditions and emphasizing Mattila's exceptional portrayal. Immerse yourself in the world of Salome, a story of lust, power, and consequences.
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History • Based on Christian Mythology • Story of Salome inspired artists and writers • Oscar Wilde wrote Salome in 1892
History Cont’d • Richard Strauss was inspired by Wilde’s play • Salome cause a sensation at the Met and was even banned for a time
Summary of Salome • Many men desired to be with Salome • Salome only wanted Jochanaan (also known as John the Baptist) • Jochanaan does not want anything to do with her
Summary • Herod (Salome’s stepfather) wanted Salome • Inappropriate: • Desires to “put his mouth where hers has been” • Asks her to dance numerous times • Mother disgusted with him
Summary • Salome decides to dance • After dance, her wish is Jochanaan’s head cut off • Herod tries to convince her otherwise • She refuses, so he proceeds with wish
Summary • Salome is handed Jochanaan’s head on silver platter • Sings with success because she now has him • Herod thinks it’s disgusting, so he has her executed
Score • German Libretto written by Richard Strauss • One act • Technically difficult
Music cont’d • Huge orchestra that is emphasized • Demanding for vocalists – compared to Wagnerian sopranos
Karita Mattila • Leading soprano • Born September 5. 1960 • Reprising role of Salome • Adds intense physicality to the role
Other performers • King Herod : Kim Begley (tenor) • John the Baptist :Juha Uusitalo (bass- baritone) • Herodias : Ildiko Komlosi (Mezzo-soprano) • Narraboth : Joseph Kaiser (tenor)
Critique • Uses very descriptive, vivid words • The whole idea of the opera itself is mirrored in the way he writes review • He compared particular production to the one four years before this one
Critique Cont’d • Talks about Karita Mattila and then talks about Salome’s character • Talks about costume • Concluded review by saying that it’s Mattila’s show
Comparison • Review written 4 years ago by same person • Has the same general structure • Writes with the same style
Herod asking Salome to dance • http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F6og12WfUnY
Salome Singing • http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kDNE_7gdjmk
Music Clip • http://www.metoperafamily.org/metopera/season/audio_pop.aspx?id=266