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3d ago

Die Walküre at Covent Garden Explores Ecological Collapse with Stark, Emotional Resonance

Barrie Kosky’s second instalment of the Royal Opera’s Ring Cycle deepens its environmental themes and character focus, earning critical acclaim for its minimalist staging and powerful performances.

The bloodthirsty Valkyries in The Royal Opera’s Die Walküre
Stanislas de Barbeyrac and Natalya Romaniw in Die Walkure at the Royal Opera House (Photo: Monika Rittershaus)
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Overview

  • Die Walküre premiered at the Royal Opera House on May 2, 2025, continuing Barrie Kosky’s ecologically themed reinterpretation of Wagner’s Ring Cycle.
  • The production features sparse, charred set designs by Rufus Didwiszus and stark lighting by Alessandro Carletti, evoking a desolate, apocalyptic landscape.
  • Antonio Pappano, newly appointed Conductor Laureate, brings fresh emotional depth to Wagner’s score, with the Royal Opera orchestra delivering refined, expressive performances.
  • Standout performances include Natalya Romaniw’s compelling debut as Sieglinde, Stanislas de Barbeyrac’s sympathetic Siegmund, and Elisabet Strid’s heartfelt portrayal of Brünnhilde.
  • The production’s ecological focus is underscored by imagery of a devastated World Ash Tree and an ash-covered Valkyries’ Ride, resonating with themes of environmental collapse.