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


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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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- Website: https://www.theater-duisburg.de/spielplan/kalender/premiere/die-verzauberte-stadt/2389/










