Performer: Heike Vollmer

Alpine mountains and streams set the scene for an illuminating production of Wagner's 'play to consecrate a stage'. 

The magic in Philipp Stölzl and Philipp Krenn's new production comes from the pit, where Joana Mallwitz and the Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra captivate. 

Here was the much-loved three-act opera Rigoletto, yes, but chances are, it was one far beyond Verdi’s wildest dreams.