site.btaSofia Opera and Ballet Stages Strauss's "Elektra" in Istanbul

On Thursday, the Sofia Opera and Ballet House will perform Richard Strauss's Elektra at the 16th International Istanbul Opera Festival. Stage director Plamen Kartaloff compares the opera, inspired by ancient Greek mythology, to "a river of sound cascading from the depths", the Sofia Opera said.

Journalist Deniz Burak Bayrak wrote: "Based on Sophocles' tragedy of the same name, the work revolves around the themes of revenge and family ties, blending the composer's unique musical language and Hugo von Hofmannsthal's impressive libretto."

Kartaloff told Bayrak: "The production of Elektra, brought to life on the stage of the Sofia Opera and Ballet, was conceived as a structure composed of constantly shifting stage tableaux (...). With a narrative rhythm reminiscent of film editing, the audience is drawn into an impressive and gripping drama from start to finish."

"The score inspires me (...) to create a visual world that immerses the audience in a vibrant and dynamic action, reflecting ever-changing and evolving themes like a kaleidoscope," Kartaloff said. "Themes such as revenge and guilt still resonate today. Elektra is not just a classical work but also a warning to modern humanity. The desire for revenge is an eternal aspect of human nature."