Echo 72

1972 Olympic Games in Munich. They were intended to be a happy festival of sport in the name of peace. But disaster struck before the eyes of the world. Eleven Israeli athletes were murdered. Germany was unable to protect its guests. 

Commissioned by Staatsoper Hannover, the opera Echo 72. Israel in München is produced by a creative team with an excellent track record. The libretto is written by Roland Schimmelpfennig, one of the most often performed dramatists of our times who most recently caused a sensation with his series of adaptations of ancient dramas titled Anthropolis at Deutsches Schauspielhaus Hamburg. The works of composer and percussionist Michael Wertmüller have had their world premieres at Lucerne Festival, Hamburgische Staatsoper and Ruhrtriennale. His music combines emotional directness and fascinating rhythms. Echo 72. Israel in München is directed by Lydia Steier whose productions of The Marriage of Figaro (Hannover) and La Vestale (Paris) have been enjoyed by audiences on OperaVision. Titus Engel, a renowned conductor and expert of contemporary music, is in charge of the musical direction of this important new opera, streamed here live on its opening night. Taking the historical events of 1972 as its starting point, Echo 72. Israel in München promises to be an urgent warning against the consequences of hatred and ignorance, and a rousing appeal for humanity and dialogue.