The Enchanted City at Theater Duisburg: A family opera full of fantasy

Event: The Enchanted City in Theater Duisburg – Großes Haus, Opernplatz, 47051 Duisburg on 23. January 2027

Date and Time

23. January 2027 16:00

Location

Theater Duisburg
Neckarstraße 1, 47051 Duisburg, Germany

Price

20,00 €
Book Tickets

About this Event

TheaterEvents for Kids

Mood

Other

Venue Type

Inside

A magical family opera full of courage and fantasy

When a world built from toys suddenly transforms into a lively city, an adventurous stage experience for the whole family begins at the Theater Duisburg. Samuel Penderbayne's family opera The Enchanted City tells the story of Philipp and Lucy, two children in a blended family, who find themselves in a mysterious world and must fulfill an ancient prophecy.

A city comes to life

Philipp feels sidelined by his mother and her new partner. Out of anger, longing, and loneliness, he constructs his own city. At night, the objects come to life: A queen, mysterious inhabitants, dragons, and pirates suddenly populate the stage. When Lucy secretly follows her stepbrother, the townsfolk mistake both children for the feared destroyer and the longed-for savior.

Opera between musical and fantasy world

Samuel Penderbayne's composition deliberately transcends the boundaries between classical opera and musical. Catchy timbres, rhythmic energy, and fairy-tale stage scenes combine to create a modern music theater production that directly engages young audiences. The dramaturgy leads through three tasks, where Philipp and Lucy must demonstrate courage, solidarity, and imagination.

Direction, stage design, and acting

Louisa Proske directs, while Momme Hinrichs designs the stage and costumes. Together they create a production in which the children's room transforms into a fantastic cosmos. The lighting atmosphere, the dynamic scenery, and the colorful décor create a theatrical ambiance between dream, danger, and departure. Soloists from the Deutsche Oper am Rhein, the choir of the Deutsche Oper am Rhein, and the Duisburg Philharmonic perform.

An adventure for the whole family

The family opera targets children aged eight and above, connecting strong emotions with an exciting plot. At its heart are the love between mother and son, the search for belonging, and the question of how common ground can arise from opposites. The performance is in German with subtitles and lasts approximately 90 minutes without intermission.

Conclusion: Fantasy becomes stage power

The Enchanted City promises a colorful stage experience with modern operatic music, fairy-tale characters, and a story about courage and solidarity. Those who want to experience the theatrical atmosphere of a family opera live and dive into a mysterious city with young heroes will find an impressive afternoon at the Grand House of the Theater Duisburg.

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