Opera Workshop The Chalk Circle at the Theater Duisburg: Great opera art becomes tangible

An opera evening between poetry, power, and compassion

With the opera workshop on Alexander Zemlinsky's The Chalk Circle, a rare glimpse behind the scenes of a musical theater work that combines fairy tale, social drama, and colorful soundscapes opens up at the Theater Duisburg. The event is designed as a rehearsal visit with a panel discussion and leads right into the workshop of the staging. On September 29, 2026, at 18:00, with free admission and limited seating capacity, the anticipation for the premiere in the autumn condenses in the opera foyer. ([operamrhein.de](https://www.operamrhein.de/spielplan/produktionen/der-kreidekreis/))

A work full of sharp edges and poetic images

Alexander Zemlinsky's opera based on Klabund's play tells the story of Haitang, a woman who endures oppression, injustice, and violence yet asserts her dignity. The story of the chalk circle comes from a long narrative tradition, but Zemlinsky shapes it into a socially critical parable with great emotional tension. His music moves between late Romanticism, jazz influences, Eastern colors, and cabaret moments; this is precisely what gives rise to the unique theatrical atmosphere of this work. ([operamrhein.de](https://www.operamrhein.de/spielplan/produktionen/der-kreidekreis/))

The staging as a space for thought

For the production at the Deutsche Oper am Rhein, David Bösch is responsible, whose direction, along with set and video by Patrick Bannwart and costumes by Falko Herold, shapes the work as a precisely constructed musical narrative. Even in the preliminary reporting, it suggests that this is not a museum-like opera performance but a lively dialogue between text, sound, and dramatic concentration. The evening promises a stage experience with analytical sharpness and sensory impact. ([operamrhein.de](https://www.operamrhein.de/spielplan/produktionen/der-kreidekreis/))

A house with opera history

The Theater Duisburg, with its large house, is one of the most prominent cultural venues in the city. The hall offers seating for up to 1,117 spectators, depending on the arrangement, while the opera foyer accommodates up to 200 guests. Its location at the Opera Square, good connectivity via Duisburg Central Station, and proximity to parking garages around the city center make a visit conveniently accessible. At the same time, the historic building is partially barrier-free, with designated disabled parking spaces on Moselstraße and additional service information for guests with limited mobility. ([theater-duisburg.de](https://www.theater-duisburg.de/ihr-besuch/))

Why the date is worthwhile

This opera workshop is much more than an introductory event. It sparks curiosity about Zemlinsky's musical language, the dramaturgy of power and justice, and the scenic signature of a house that prepares its opera productions with notable care. Those interested in music theater, direction, and the inner mechanics of an opera production will experience a rare closeness to the artistic creation process here. The audience can expect an evening that combines knowledge, tension, and anticipation. Experiencing the opera workshop live is particularly worthwhile as it charges the premiere with an additional resonance space. ([operamrhein.de](https://www.operamrhein.de/spielplan/produktionen/der-kreidekreis/))

Official channels of Deutsche Oper am Rhein:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/operamrhein
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/operamrhein
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/deutscheoperamrhein
• Website: https://www.operamrhein.de/spielplan/produktionen/der-kreidekreis/

Sources:

• Deutsche Oper am Rhein - The Chalk Circle
• Theater Duisburg - The Chalk Circle
• Theater Duisburg - Your Visit
• Theater Duisburg - The Theater Duisburg
• Deutsche Oper am Rhein - Social Media Channels
• Zemlinsky - The Chalk Circle
• Neue Musikzeitung - Review of The Chalk Circle
• Opera & Dance - Report on The Chalk Circle