Opera spectacle in Potsdam: Orlando generoso inspires with emotions!

Opera spectacle in Potsdam: Orlando generoso inspires with emotions!

In an inspiring atmosphere, the opera “Orlando Generoso” by the composer Agostino Steffani was performed on July 13, 2025 in the beautiful Sanssouci Orangery Palace. Under the direction of Dorothee Oberlinger, Ensemble 1700 not only celebrated Steffani's musical talent, but also impressed with an outstanding acting performance by its talented soloists. The performance was held as part of the Potsdam Sanssouci Music Festival and captivated numerous visitors.

Originally premiered at the court of Hanover in 1691, the opera is based on a section from Ludovico Ariosto's “Orlando Furioso”. This imaginative tale transports audiences to a lived-in version of China, where the knight Orlando falls for his love for Angelica, daughter of King Galafro. The plot is characterized by complex and grueling paths of love that drive Orlando to the brink of madness. In the end, the once victorious hero turns out to be “magnanimous,” which brings out the entire emotional depth of the characters to the fullest.

Virtuosity and respect for tradition

Steffani's musical composition, which was appreciated by Bach and Handel, exhibits remarkable virtuosity and great contrasts. The composer succeeds in combining Italian melodies with French formal rigor, making the music an experience for the ears. Interestingly, the production contains more duets than was usual at the time, which gives the baroque opera a refreshing lightness and frees it from rigid patterns. Dorothee Oberlinger and her ensemble showed a deep understanding of Steffani's style and effortlessly switched between soulful arias and lively dance passages.

The cast was remarkable. Terry Wey took on the role of Orlando with emotional intensity, while Hélène Walter as Angelica and Natalia Kawalek as Medoro shone with flexibility and warmth. Shira Patchornik as Bradamante and Morten Grove Frandsen as Ruggiero demonstrated strong stage presence and a consistent emotional depth that captivated the audience. Florian Götz as Atlante and Gabriel Diaz in the role of the tyrannical Galafro contributed to the complex narrative, dynamically modernized by the brilliant direction of Jean Renshaw.

A unique venue

The acoustics in the Orangery Palace, which originally served as a winter garden for exotic plants, were particularly pleasing. The scene was designed minimalistically, with two white walls and a table that emphasized the connection to the action. The space was used effectively: the orchestra was placed on raised platforms, while the singers performed on a slightly raised stage. Ambient bird song from the neighboring Sanssouci Gardens gave the performance a poetic touch.

The production has been described as outstanding and gives hope that it will be performed again in the future. This performance of “Orlando generoso” impressively showcases Steffani’s emotional range and musical diversity. One thing is clear: the opera has captured the hearts of the audience and shows once again how timeless and moving the art form of opera can be.

For more information, see reports from Radio Three, Opera Wire and The opera lover.