The Flying Dutchman, Richard Wagner’s dramatic and theatrical opera, returned to the Cape of Storms in January this year, after an absence of some 20 years.

The cast of gifted young South African singers – Nkosazana Dimande (Senta), Sunnyboy Dladla (Helmsman), Matthew Overmeyer (Erik) and Karen van der Walt (Mary) – was reinforced by two experienced Wagnerians. South Africa’s Rouel Beukes sang Daland, and American baritone Gary Simpson stepped in to replace an indisposed Ntobeko Rwanqa.

Richard Wagner Society president Herbert Gloeckner said that having an injection of international experience provided by Simpson is a bonus for the singers.

“His experience is enormous; he has known conductor Kamal Khan for 15 years, when they worked together in Florida, and his strength and knowledge will add immeasurably to the cast.”

The romantic, gripping legend was directed by award-winning Lara Bye, who was responsible for both previous and successful Wagner Society operas, La Serva Padrona and La Scala di Seta.

Set design was by Craig Leo, a multi-talented set and costume designer, puppeteer and actor, presenting performing at the National Theatre in London. Reza Levy was the costume designer with lighting by Faheem Bardien

The Cape Philharmonic Orchestra performed under Khan’s baton, and the 40-voice Wagner Festival Choir, comprising members of the Joyful Harmonies and Phenomenal Voices choir and prepared by Monde Mdingi, made its debut – to full houses and standing ovations on both nights.

Speaking on behalf of the Wagner Society, Shirley de Kock Gueller said,

“No one thought we would achieve it. We had to raise the R1.5 million budget overseas with few exceptions. We came in under budget, played to two full houses (3000 people) with very very few complimentary seats, unknown on opening night in operatic circles in Cape Town, an almost full dress rehearsal, standing ovations and two outstanding reviews.

This was the third opera we have presented – the first two were also well received.”

Why go to all the trouble? “To help establish gifted South African singers by giving them the chance to sing in an opera that singers overseas may never have the chance to do.

“The choir comprised youngsters from the townships, all of whom had not been to an opera, and probably never heard German. They were amazing!

“About 100 Wagnerians came from overseas to attend a performance and it was good to hear their glowing praise since their standards are extremely high. The president of the international association of Wagner societies was so impressed with tenor Matthew Overmeyer that she has agreed to host him and teach him when he goes to audition in Germany.

“The other tenor, Sunnyboy Dladla, is on his way to Europe to sing there as well. The Schleswig Holstein festival producers were in the audience and although they knew him from last year his performance in Dutchman clinched the deal.”

BBQ writer