Prisoner of the State is an impressive new classic by the American composer David Lang which can be viewed exclusively in Rotterdam. The performance presents a dark futuristic rendition of Fidelio, Beethoven’s sole opera. Without using a single one of Beethoven’s notes but inspired by similar ideals, Lang delves into the contemporary significance of grand polemics and themes such as gender or identity. He has retained Fidelio’s protagonists for, “the injustice underpinning the story is of all times – and it is my mission to write music that appeals at various levels.” Lang has worked on this ambitious music theatre project for over a decade.

You can already purchase a day ticket or passe-partout for O. 2023 so you will have first choice when ordering specific tickets. The loose tickets for this performance will go on sale in early April. Would you like to receive the latest festival (ticket sales) updates? Register for the O. newsletter or follow us on social media!