Mozart’s ‘Die Zauberflöte’ marks 235th anniversary of Vienna premiere

The opera ‘Die Zauberflöte’ (The Magic Flute) by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart premiered 235 years ago on September 30, 1791, at the Theater auf der Wieden in Vienna. The production featured a libretto by Emanuel Schikaneder, who also performed the role of Papageno.

Mozart directed the initial performances from the piano. The original cast included Josepha Hofer as the Queen of the Night, Anna Gottlieb as Pamina, Benedikt Schack as Tamino, and Franz Xaver Gerl as Sarastro. The work, which blends fairy-tale elements with Masonic themes, was composed during the final year of Mozart's life; he passed away on December 5, 1791, only two months after the premiere.

Historically, the collaboration arose partly due to financial pressures. While Mozart was highly compensated, his lifestyle led to financial difficulties, prompting Schikaneder to suggest the German-language fairy-tale opera. The work has since evolved from a suburban Viennese production into a staple of the international opera repertoire.