Adam und Eva

World Premiere- Schwetzinger Festspiele 2025

The Extra-Chor from Landestheater Linz as Eva tries to make Adam bite the apple.

It was a real pleasure to work as Choir Master for the World Premiere of Mike Svoboda’s Adam und Eva as part of the Schwetzinger Festspiele in Germany. The entire experience was incredibly enriching, filled with moments of artistic collaboration and discovery. We opened on the 2nd May in the beautiful Rokoko Theater, which is part of the Palace grounds in Schwetzingen, a venue that perfectly complemented the visionary nature of the production. The stunning architecture and acoustics of the theater provided an unforgettable backdrop, enhancing every note and emotion conveyed by the performers. This memorable occasion not only showcased Mike Svoboda’s brilliant composition but also brought together a diverse group of talented artists who shared a deep passion for music and storytelling.

David Barnard with Landestheater Linz Intendant, Hermann Schneider.

The music of the opera is complex, challenging, and wonderfully orchestrated for chamber orchestra – clarinet (and bass clarinet), piano accordion, strings, percussion, and trombones, creating an immersive auditory experience that captivates the audience from the very first note. The interplay between the woodwinds and the rich textures of the strings adds depth and emotion to each scene, while the piano accordion brings a unique timbre that evokes a sense of wonder. It also has pre-recorded video and audio media that enhance the storytelling, as well as sonic arts and live electro playing, blurring the lines between traditional performance and modern technology, inviting listeners to engage with the narrative in an innovative and profound way.

The beautiful Rokoko Theater – built in 1752-1753.

Images/Photos courtesy of Schwetzinger Festspiele 2025