Charles Court Opera kick off their 20th anniversary with their production of Mozart’s The Magic Flute, opens at Wilton’s Music Hall this evening.
Set in the heart of the mysterious jungle, join intrepid explorer Tamino as he embarks on a journey filled with fantastical, magical creatures, where nothing is as it seems. With translation by director John Savournin (book) and David Eaton (lyrics), the opera production is filled with puppetry, magic and more.
We caught up with John Savournin to find out more.
Q&A with John Savournin
How does it feel to be returning to Wilton’s with The Magic Flute?
Wilton’s is such a perfect theatre. It has charm, atmosphere and beauty. A beautiful place that feels like it’s being rediscovered, with its exposed original brickwork and wall. And as our production features a lost temple, in an overgrown jungle, it feels like a perfect marriage.
What’s it like to be celebrating Charles Court Opera’s 20th anniversary as a company?
How has it been 20 years? It’s amazing that we have come so far since our humble beginnings, and it feels like a real milestone to have reached this point. I’m incredibly excited for the next 20 years, as we continue to grow.
What made The Magic Flute the right show to launch the anniversary year?
This production is one of our absolute favourites with audiences, first seen at the Iford Arts Festival, and then at the King’s Head Theatre in Islington, so it felt like the perfect production to celebrate our 20th anniversary.
How have you approached directing the production?
The Magic Flute requires a balance between real emotional depth of thought and a comedic, almost pantomimic flair. We have striven to strike this balance in this production, which features beautiful moments that are by turns beautiful and humorous.
How do you think audiences will react to the show?
It’s a show packed with so much to enjoy. Lots of puppets, and amazing performances from the cast. I hope audiences will come away with their hearts full of the joy that The Magic Flute has to offer, and touched by the beauty of Mozart’s music.
The Magic Flute is at Wilton’s Music Hall from 25 February to 8 March 2025
