Staatsoper Unter den Linden
Photo: Max Lautenschläger
Daniel Barenboim and the Staatskapelle Berlin
Photo: Monika Rittershaus

Staatsoper
Unter den Linden

The Staatsoper Unter den Linden was founded by Frederick the Great and after its construction by Georg Wenzeslaus von Knobelsdorff, it was officially opened in 1742 in the heart of Berlin. As the Berliner Hof- und Staatsoper, the opera house had an eventful history such as few others: it survived wars and the change of political systems, bombings, fires and demolition. Following the completion of fundamental renovation measures in 2017 – just in time for the 275th anniversary of the building rich in tradition – the opera house on Unter den Linden uniquely combines its historic spatial dimensions with state-of-the-art technology. It occupies a top position in Europe and continues to provide a unique programme of concerts and opera in the centre of Berlin. The repertoire ranges from baroque opera performed in a historically informed way, to central works of classical, romantic and modern opera, world premieres by contemporary composers and developments of new works with alternative and experimental forms. Productions reflect the exploration of works from today’s perspective, give new impulses to conventional perceptions and remain loyal to the intention of the work.  Renowned conductors, a high-calibre resident ensemble complemented by internationally known singers and the Staatsopernchor and the Staatskapelle Berlin guarantee music of the highest level. To ensure that opera is continually invigorated with fresh life, the promotion of young artists and the accessibility of the venue for a young audience are of particular importance.

From the beginning, the 450-year-old Staatskapelle Berlin has been linked to the location and institution of the Staatsoper. Since it was founded in 1570, the Staatskapelle Berlin has had a decisive influence on the cultural life of the city. Throughout its development from the Kurbrandenburgische Hofkantorei to the Königlich Preußische Hofkapelle before it became today’s large opera and symphony orchestra at the Staatsoper Unter den Linden, it reflects the historical development of Germany. Outstanding artists such as Gaspare Spontini, Felix Mendelssohn Bartholdy, Giacomo Meyerbeer, Richard Strauss, Erich Kleiber, Otto Klemperer, Wilhelm Furtwangler, Herbert von Karajan and Otmar Suitner have decisively shaped the Staatsoper and the Staatskapelle.

staatsoper-berlin.de

Staatsoper Unter den Linden
Unter den Linden 7
10117 Berlin

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