Strauss classic gets modern take

A news conference for the NCPA production of Die Fledermaus was held in Beijing on Nov 5, with guests including soprano Jacquelyn Wagner, baritone Markus Werba, NCPA deputy director Zhang Yao, French director and stage designer Vincent Boussard, baritone Zhou Zhengzhong and soprano Song Yuanming. This year, the National Centre for the Performing Arts in Beijing will stage a new production of Die Fledermaus between Nov 27 and Dec 1 marking its 150th anniversary, presenting audiences with an immersive audiovisual experience, ingenious stage design, and powerful cast. According to Zhang Yao, deputy director of the NCPA and general supervisor of the production, it brings together creatives from nine countries, with 200 staff also involved. French conductor Marc Minkowski is making his first appearance in a Chinese production, and international vocalists, including baritone Markus Werba, baritone Zhou Zhengzhong, soprano Jacquelyn Wagner, and soprano Song Yuanming, will be part of the performances.