Suche
Mein Konto
Kiel Opera: Loriot's Ring of the Nibelung - humorous classic reinvented!
On January 31, 2026, the Kiel Opera will present “Loriot’s Ring in One Evening” with Michael Kessler as narrator.
Kiel Opera: Loriot's Ring of the Nibelung - humorous classic reinvented!
In a surprising twist, the Kiel Opera has decided to replace the originally planned production of Wagner's “Tannhäuser” in January 2026 with a very special performance. On January 31, 2026, **Loriot's** humorous summary of “The Ring of the Nibelung” will premiere, performed under the title “The Ring in One Evening.” This short version of the venerable tetralogy condenses the original's impressive 14 hours into an entertaining format of just three hours, in the spirit of Loriot's "Listener's Digest" [KN Online].
The sad background to this decision is the sudden death of the general music director Gabriel Feltz. The production under the direction of general director Daniel Karasek was also delayed, which led the Kiel Opera to change the program. Michael Kessler takes on the role of commentating narrator and provides a unique approach to Wagner's mythological themes.
A new perspective on Wagner
Loriot's version is described as not only a funny but also a profound examination of Wagner's work and offers both Wagner experts and newcomers a humorous approach to "The Ring of the Nibelung". While Kessler comments on the works, the major Wagner roles are sung by members of the Kiel ensemble, with the exception of the role of Wotan, which is entrusted to the experienced baritone Michael Kupfer-Radecky. This has already shone at the Bayreuth Festival and other international stages Theater Kiel.
Conductor Frank Beermann, an expert on Wagner's works and Echo Klassik Prize winner, will take over the musical direction and promises to take the audience into the fascinating world of Wagner's music.
A feast for the senses
The artistic redesign of the performance shows that even traditional works can be interpreted in a modern way. The Kiel Opera's decision to integrate Loriot's satirical touch into Wagner's renowned music is a move that could make both audiences and the industry sit up and take notice. At a time when creative approaches are in demand, the Kiel Opera shows how to ensure innovation with a “good hand” while maintaining respect for the masterpieces.
The Kiel Opera expects that the premiere of “The Ring in One Evening” will appeal to a wide audience and capture the latest trends in opera performances. Information and details about other Wagner events worldwide are available at Wagneropera.net, where future events and productions related to the Wagner repertoire are also presented.