Komische Oper Berlin stages ‘Lear’ at Tempelhof Airport

The Komische Oper Berlin has staged a new production of Aribert Reimann’s opera ‘Lear’ at the Hangar 4 venue in the former Tempelhof Airport. This production, directed by Barrie Kosky, marks the third time the Komische Oper has staged this specific work, following previous productions in 1983 and 2009.

The staging utilizes a large square platform and a black walkway that functions as a table, evoking imagery similar to Kurt Jooss’s anti-war ballet ‘The Green Table’. The production features high-intensity lighting by Olaf Freese and an amplified orchestra led by Nicholas Carter, which emphasizes the dissonant and powerful nature of Reimann’s score while still highlighting its lyrical moments.

The narrative focuses on the power struggles and social tensions within the court, specifically highlighting the character Edmund, portrayed by tenor Brenton Ryan. The performance explores themes of legitimacy and social standing through highly expressive music and dramatic staging.