Washington Opera's American Ring Cycle Continues

Director Francesca Zambello and Music Director Heinz Fricke continue their collaboration in this universal saga of power and desire. Ms. Zambello's production team includes two Tony Award winners, set designer Michael Yeargan and costume designer Catherine Zuber.

"To create this extraordinary production, American reality and myth are fused together," said director Francesca Zambello. "Themes are drawn from the visual palette and iconic imagery of American history. Staging these elements in the nation's capital creates a moving experience for audiences."

American symbols are especially poignant in the costumes. "Die Walküre costumes illustrate the unique themes of this production and bring Wagner's powerful tale into the 20th century," said costume designer Catherine Zuber. "Valkyries are dressed as paratroopers, Brünnhilde's look is classic and militaristic, Sieglinde is draped in a simple blue day dress, Siegmund is a bohemian drifter, and Wotan is dressed as a sleek titan of commerce. I am honored to be a collaborator on this innovative production."

The second and most popular installment of Wagner's Ring cycle, Die Walküre is a saga of forbidden love, heroism, and the conflict between personal ambition and desire and the rule of law.

Recounting the tragic love story of long-lost twins Siegmund and Sieglinde, and how a daughter's defiance secures the future of humanity but foretells the ultimate destruction of the gods. The Ring is a co-production with San Francisco Opera. -- www.dc-opera.org