Regarded as one of the quintessential masterpieces of classical sacred music, Bach’s revered account of Christ’s Passion from the Gospel of Matthew is detailed through sublimely beautiful music that is eloquent and profoundly moving, both in its humanity and spirituality. While a highlight of concert seasons and festivals around the world for more than 150 years, Bach’s final and most dramatic Passion was never intended to be staged.
Renowned for his highly original takes on operatic works, Peter Sellars ritualizes this magnificent masterpiece to create a communal grieving process while illuminating Bach’s unmatched gift for presenting both deep hardship and the possibility of transcendence. This radically inclusive approach eliminates the separation between artist and audience — there are no spectators, only observers and participants —with musicians and singers moving amongst each other.
Hailed as “the single most important thing we ever did here” by Simon Rattle when the production premiered at the Berlin Philharmonie in 2010, Rattle again leads the Berliner Philharmoniker, a cast of superb singers including Mark Padmore and Christian Gerhaher, and extensive choral forces for the U.S. premiere of this epic production.
Co-presented by Park Avenue Armory and Lincoln Center’s WHITE LIGHT FESTIVAL
PERFORMANCE SCHEDULE:
TUESDAY @ 7 PM
WEDNESDAY @ 8 PM
