Co-production of Wagner opera to hit stage in Beijing

BEIJING, May 21 (Xinhua) -- A co-production of a Richard Wagner opera by the National Center for the Performing Arts (NCPA), the Royal Opera House and Opera Australia will be staged at the NCPA in Beijing from May 31 to June 7.

"Die Meistersinger von Nurnberg," composed between 1845 and 1867, premiered at the National Theatre Munich in 1868. It is Wagner's only "comic" opera.

The opera tells the story of mastersinger Hans Sachs, a historical figure who wrote poems celebrating the spirit of humanity and life and who made significant contributions to German art in the 16th Century. Wagner depicted the character to express his admiration for German culture and art.

Bass-baritone Johan Reuter will play protagonist Hans Sachs and American soprano Amanda Majeski will play lead female character Eva Pogner. The China NCPA Orchestra will perform accompaniment and instrumental music for the opera. Enditem