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Role debut in Strauss’ ‘Die ägyptische Helena’ at Teatro alla Scala

Thomas Hampson returns to Teatro alla Scala for his greatly anticipated role debut as Altair in Strauss’ ravishing Die ägyptische Helena. Strauss and Hofmannsthal’s re-imagination of the Helen of Troy myth will feature a new production by Sven-Eric Bechtolf, with set design by Julian Crouch and costume design by Mark Bouman. This production marks the first time Die ägyptische Helena will be staged at La Scala. In 2017, Mr. Hampson made his operatic debut at the house as the title role of Don Giovanni, garnering praise for his “smooth, smart, deft, and ever-interesting” portrayal (The New Criterion).

Performances take place on November 6, 9, 12, 15, 17, 20, & 23. Hampson shares the stage with a fantastic group of artists, including Ricarda Merbeth as Helena, Andreas Schager as Hermoine, Eva Mei as Aithra, and Attilio Glaser as Da-Ud, among others. Franz Welser-Möst conducts the Teatro alla Scala Chorus and Orchestra. Hampson starred in Sven-Eric Bechtolf’s acclaimed production of Strauss’ Arabella at the Wiener Staatsoper in 2007 and has since wowed critics and audiences with his formidable performances as Mandryka, particularly at the 2014 Salzburg Easter Festival opposite Reneé Fleming as the title role, which was released on DVD. More information about the recording is available via Hampson’s Recordings.