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The Flying Dutchman 1973

July 27 - August 23, 1973

Resplendent music…

…and the search for perfect love as redemption from deathless wandering provide the powerful themes in this haunting classic.

Music and Libretto By
Richard Wagner
Based on an Episode In
Heinrich Heine's "Memoirem des Herrn von Schnabelewopski"

Synopsis

Act I

A violent storm has driven Daland’s ship several miles beyond his home on the Norwegian coast. After telling his crew that they have earned a good rest, he leaves the watch in charge of a young steersman, who falls asleep singing a ballad about his sweetheart. As the sky suddenly darkens and the waters again grow rough, a ghostly red-sailed schooner appears on the horizon and drops anchor next to Daland’s ship. Its captain, Vanderdecken, steps ashore, despairing of his fate: once every seven years he may leave his ship in search of a woman whose perfect love will redeem him from his deathless wandering; failing this, he is condemned to roam until the Day of Judgment. When Daland returns to discover the phantom ship, Vanderdecken tells him of his plight and offers a reward of gold and jewels for a night’s lodging. Then, discovering Daland has a daughter, the Dutchman asks for her hand in marriage. Daland, seeing the extent of the stranger’s wealth, immediately agrees and rejoices in his good fortune. Vanderdecken promises his entire treasure cargo as dowry and renews hope for his salvation. The happy Daland, agreeing to meet the Dutchman at his home port, sets sail with his crew, who take up the steersman’s song.

Artists

William Dooley headshot

William Dooley

Bass-baritone

The Dutchman

Pauline Tinsley

Soprano

Senta

Spiro Malas

Bass-baritone

Daland

Maurice Maievsky

Tenor

Erik

Michael Best

Tenor

Steersman

Judith Farris

Mezzo-soprano

Mary

Uri Segal

Conductor

Bodo Igesz

Director

Neil Peter Jampolis

Neil Peter Jampolis

Designer

Scenery and Lighting

Suzanne Mess

Costume Designer

Robert Jones

Chorus Master