Independent Opera Company presents Daphne by R. Strauss

Independent Opera Company Presents Rarely-Performed 

German Opera “Daphne” by Richard Strauss

Independent Opera Company’s fully staged performance of “Daphne” 

marks the opera’s Los Angeles premiere. 

Independent Opera Company (IOC) continues its 2024-2025 season with “Daphne,” a rarely- performed opera by German composer Richard Strauss. IOC’s presentation of “Daphne” will be the Los Angeles premiere of this exceptional work. The opera will be fully staged, with professional costumes, piano accompaniment, and performed by some of Los Angeles’ finest singers. Theresa Patten-Koeckert is a Stage Director and Galina Barskaya is Artistic/Music Director. 

The opera will be performed in German with English supertitles at the beautiful historic La Cañada Congregational Church, 1200 Foothill Blvd, La Cañada Flintridge, CA 91011 on March 21 and March 22 at 7:30 pm.

Buy tickets online or at the door. Need ticket link and ticket prices

Synopsis

This gem of an opera was created in the very challenging and turbulent times of the late 1930s, when Hitler and Nazi ideology had already taken over Germany, and the Führer was preparing to take over the world. “Daphne,” with its reach, beautiful score, and story loosely based on Greek mythology, appears as a kind of a respite and attempt to escape into the alternative realm of fairytale and beauty. However, we can also look at it as a subtle form of protest against the oppressive regime.

The opera was subtitled by the composer as "Bucolic Tragedy in One Act.” It tells the story of a country girl, Daphne, who is living a simple life and is deeply connected to her community and nature. Two men are trying to woo her: one is her childhood friend Leukippos, and the other, the god Apollo himself. The rivalry between mortal and god leads to the death of innocent Leukippos; however, Apollo, full of remorse, in an attempt to make amends with Daphne, grants her wish to connect with nature even more. Thus, Daphne is transformed into a beautiful tree.

Strauss himself considered “Daphne” one of his highest musical achievements, and it’s been said that he repeatedly played the opera's finale on piano for his personal enjoyment.

Daphne's story seems ancient, yet it resonates with truly contemporary themes, such as women's independence and environmental issues.

We at IOC deeply sympathize with all who suffered under the recent wildfires. Part of the proceeds from Daphne production will go to the fund supporting the victims.

About Independent Opera Company

Founded in Spring of 2012, Independent Opera Company (IOC) is committed to presenting the highest quality performances at affordable prices. IOC wishes to make opera accessible for a wide audience that reflects the diversity of Los Angeles. For that reason, IOC explores an exciting range of operas from different styles, periods, and countries to find subjects and stories that everyone can relate to. Young and seasoned singers work together in harmony to give audiences a chance to experience the magical and transforming power of opera!