‘The Magic Flute’ Sells Out at Austrian Embassy
By • October 6, 2022 0 1244
The Washington Opera Society presented Mozart’s “The Magic Flute” to a sold-out audience at the Embassy of Austria on Sept. 23. Headlining the world-class production was Maestro Julien Benichou conducting the WOS orchestra and featuring emerging young artists on the verge of great and international careers. The production was sponsored by the Austrian Cultural Forum under the leadership of Cultural Attaché Dr. Johannes Aigner and “was unique among such sponsorships,” according to Deputy Chief of Mission Günther Salzmann. WOS is the only boutique opera company in Washington, D.C., producing grand opera, operetta and concerts with full orchestras in embassies using world-class artists as well as local, young emerging performers.
This production was “especially thrilling and exciting because Austria is my homeland, and ‘The Magic Flute’ is such a beloved piece for all Austrians,” said Vienna-born Board President Alexandra Sényi de Nagy-Unyom.
This production was the inauguration of the WOS’s Youth Initiative which highlights gratis presentations of master classes and instructional smaller productions at Washington, D.C., universities and high schools to marginal and underserved schools. In addition, this program will feature vocal competitions and scholarships to local young performers. On Friday night, the initiative sponsored some eight youths at the Austrian Embassy from the D.C. non-profit, DC Doors, which offers programs for youth homelessness in our City, according to DC Doors Executive Director Janethe Peña. The WOS is proud to support these efforts, which is entirely funded through contributions from individuals and small businesses.
Following the performance, guests enjoyed a buffet of savories and sweets by Chef Mikko Catering.
Thomas Noll, WOS Member Barbara Bennett, WOS Board President Alexandra Sényi de Nagy-Unyom, Major General Norbert Huber, Defense, Military, Naval & Air Attaché for Austria, and José Alberto Uclés. at the Embassy of Austria. Courtesy the Washington Opera Society.
