Komische Oper Berlin opens new season with Reimann’s ‘Lear’

The Komische Oper Berlin has launched its new 2026/27 season with a production of Aribert Reimann’s opera ‘Lear’. Due to ongoing renovations at the company’s main house in Berlin-Mitte, the performance is being held at Hangar 4 in the former Tempelhof Airport.

Based on William Shakespeare’s tragedy, the opera features a libretto by Claus H. Henneberg. The production, directed by Barrie Kosky, utilizes the vast, industrial space of the hangar to emphasize themes of isolation and power. The set design by Rebecca Ringst incorporates a moving platform and floor openings to create a sense of abyss.

Musically, the production is led by conductor Nicolas Carter. The cast includes Scott Hendricks as King Lear, Penny Sofroniadou as Cordelia, and Aryeh Nussbaum Cohen as Edgar. The work is noted for its intense, expressive musical language, which Reimann composed to reflect the brutal and dark nature of the original Shakespearean text.