Opera is generally perceived as a traditional art form, typically not known for being particularly adventurous.
However, the Austrian production of “Sancta Susanna” shows that opera has evolved significantly.
During its performances, some audience members were so taken aback by the show’s explicit content that 18 needed medical attention.
Check out the trailer here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DWLmmDIMGaE
The Stuttgart State Opera describes the production as “Bach meets metal, the Weather Girls meet Rachmaninoff – and naked nuns meet roller skates”.
This is certainly not your standard opera experience.
The production features a tale of a repressed nun coming to terms with her sexuality, with themes of lesbianism and religious fantasies including Jesus Christ.
While it may seem groundbreaking, the opera was actually scheduled for 1921 but was canceled. Now, it finally premieres, earning the title of a “radical vision of the Holy Mass”.
The initial performances triggered nausea and shock in 18 spectators, necessitating medical assistance.
The updated version includes scenes of two nuns engaging in lesbian acts, with onstage nudity described as “sensual, poetic and wild”.
In another part, an actress with dwarfism plays the pope and is swung around, alongside nuns on roller skates and a Jesus figure performing ‘Eminem’.
Due to the explicit content, only those over 18 are permitted to attend. The show features sex acts, violent stunts, real and fake blood, piercings, and depictions of violence.
A particularly striking scene involves bodies arranged in a crucifixion pose, drenched in fake blood.
The State Opera defends the use of nudity and violence, stating: “Of course, theater and opera merely imitate reality: when people love, suffer and die on the opera stage, it is all just an act.”
“For decades, performance art has differed: performers do not just play roles; the body itself is the medium – particularly in Florentina Holzinger’s work, where natural nudity is central.”
The three-hour show, with no intermission, warns attendees. The opera house emphasizes that “Sancta Susanna” is for those “seeking daring new theatrical experiences.”
Despite mixed reviews and strong reactions, “Sancta Susanna” will continue its run.