A First for Taconic Opera: “When Staging a German Opera, Go Big”

In the heart of Yorktown Heights, Taconic Opera is gearing up to debut its first-ever German opera production, set to take place at the Yorktown Stage on October 21-22. Director Dan Montez, who is also the group’s CEO, shares insights into the ambitious decision to stage Richard Strauss’s Ariadne auf Naxos, an opera that is rarely performed: “I thought, if we were to stage a German opera, then go big.”

Montez adds: “This is probably one of the most difficult operas in the world.” Indeed, Strauss’ masterpiece is known for its musical intricacies, demanding a mastery of melodic, harmonic and rhythmic skills.

Strauss, renowned for his dramatic compositions, weaves a tale of two performance groups, one serious and one comedic, sharing the stage. This collision of genres leads to humorous moments and insightful reflections on the nature of art and performance. The first part shows the backstage chaos while the second part is the opera being prepared for, essentially displaying an opera within an opera.

Taconic Opera’s journey with Ariadne auf Naxos was marked by dedication and perseverance. The cast devoted approximately a year to perfecting their roles, navigating the intricate harmonies and nuanced characterizations that the opera demands. Their proficiency in multiple languages widens the scope of the performance, enabling audience members to engage more fully in the operatic experience.

Meanwhile, the production’s conductor, Maestro Jun Nakabayashi, faced the monumental task of expertly arranging an orchestral reduction, ensuring the music maintains its grandeur while remaining feasible for a smaller ensemble.

The set design offers a peek into the chaotic backstage world of performance. As characters adorn themselves in elaborate costumes and prepare to take the stage, the audience is transported into the whirlwind of a grand production. Whimsical elements, like a character dressed as a bumblebee, allow the production to embrace its comedic essence, showing the contrast between the serious and the lighthearted.

Montez reflects: “This level of an opera has never, ever been done in Westchester County, ever. Because most people stick with the traditional stuff, like Carmen or [Madame] Butterfly. To do a big fully staged Richard Strauss opera is rather shocking to a lot of people.”

Taconic Opera has presented more than 60 operas during its 26 years in operation. With Ariadne auf Naxos, Montez says that the organization aims to push boundaries, introducing a level of operatic excellence previously unseen in the region. By taking on this challenging work, he hopes to inspire a newfound appreciation for opera and the arts.

Kierra Pizarro is a freshman at Suny Purchase College studying Voice and Opera Studies. Born and raised in New York, she is an Arts Ambassador for ArtsWestchester.