Wiesbaden's The Birds reimagines opera as a bold populism allegory

A modern airport becomes the stage for rebellion and seduction. Can this opera's fairy-tale whimsy expose today's political illusions?

, and Administrator

2026 March 13 . 7:01 AM

1 min read

The image shows an open book with music notes on it. The book is titled "The Favourite Songs in the... — The image shows an open book with music notes on it. The book is titled "The Favourite Songs in the Opera" and contains text and musical symbols.

Wiesbaden's The Birds reimagines opera as a bold populism allegory

Wiesbaden State Theatre is set to unveil a bold new staging of Walter Braunfels' opera The Birds. Directed by Ersan Mondtag, the production transforms the piece into a striking allegory of populism and political seduction. The premiere takes place on Saturday, 21 March 2026, at 7:30 PM in the Main Auditorium.

Mondtag's interpretation weaves together poetic imagery, exaggerated choral scenes, and intimate moments. The story follows Hopeful and Wiseacre as they flee to the realm of the birds, convincing them to build a city and rebel against the gods. The setting shifts from fairy-tale whimsy to a modern airport, complete with rotisserie chicken stands and aviation-themed symbolism.

This production continues Mondtag's tradition of blending political critique with visual spectacle. His 2024 staging of *The Birds* at the same theatre used an airport to represent a gullible society seduced by power. That same year, he collaborated with artist Yael Bartana on *Monument to an Unknown Person* for the German Pavilion at the Venice Biennale, exploring themes of collective memory and societal boundaries. The opera's late Romantic score will be performed by the theatre's in-house ensemble, led by Principal Conductor Paul Taubitz. Following the premiere, additional performances are scheduled for 27 and 29 March, 11 and 16 April, and 7 and 26 June.

Mondtag's production serves as a sharp commentary on how societies can be swayed by false promises. The combination of Braunfels' music, political allegory, and striking visuals creates a Gesamtkunstwerk—a total work of art—that challenges audiences to reflect on power and persuasion. Tickets for the performances are now available through the Wiesbaden State Theatre.