Performer: Netherlands Philharmonic Orchestra

Dutch National Opera’s powerhouse cast and incandescent chorus deliver a musical triumph in Robert Carsen’s Cav/Pag revival, even as its voyeuristic staging leaves bitter ethical questions around gendered violence unresolved.

Director Dmitri Tcherniakov and a talented cast do everything to make Tchaikovsky’s opera work in Amsterdam, but problematic elements persist. 

Johann Strauss II's Die Fledermaus, was never meant to challenge grand opera for profundity and Barrie Kosky pokes fun at Viennese high society in his riotous staging. 

Barrie Kosky brings his trio of Puccini productions to a close with another triptych: Il trittico in a triumphant staging. 

When the director walks four weeks ahead of opening night, Dutch National Opera and Ballet hastily create a searing double bill of classical tragedy.