“Das Rheingold – Opera in 1 Act by Richard Wagner” opens the 27th Macao International Music Festival

The Macao International Music Festival (MIMF), organised by the Cultural Affairs Bureau, opens its 27th edition with a Latvian National Opera production of Richard Wagner's opera Das Rheingold, to be held on October 2nd, Wednesday, at 8pm, at the Macao Cultural Centre Grand Auditorium, in commemoration of the 200th anniversary of the composer's birth. The MIMF brings 22 outstanding shows to the territory from October 2nd to November 3rd 2013. Das Rheingold, the first opera in the cycle Der Ring des Nibelungen (The Ring cycle), introduces Wagner's vast, mythical world. In legendary times, Northern Europe consisted of three realms: the underworld, where the Nibelungs lived; the earth's surface, inhabited by giants and mortals; and the cloudy heights, home of the gods. The dwarf Alberich renounces love and steals the gold guarded by the maidens of the Rhine. He forges a magic ring from the gold, but it soon becomes an object of desire for Wotan, the ruler of the gods, who wants to save his wife's sister from the giants. The infuriated Alberich lays a curse on his lost treasure – anyone who possesses it will eventually meet their doom… This modern version of Das Rheingold by the Latvian National Opera, together with a strong cast and exquisite sets, will certainly enrapture the audience. The 27th MIMF's opening ceremony will take place before the opening performance, at 7.45pm, at the Macao Cultural Centre lobby. The public is welcome to attend. Tickets for the 27th Macao International Music Festival can be purchased at all Kong Seng Ticketing outlets, both by telephone and online. A variety of discount plans is offered. For more information pertaining to the 27th MIMF, please visit the Festival's website at: www.icm.gov.mo/fimm.