Charles Gounod’s “Faust” at Bavarian State Opera: A Premiere and Broadcast Overview
The Bavarian State Opera recently premiered a new production of Charles Gounod’s “Faust,” garnering positive reception for its scenic design, musical execution, and overall artistic merit. The premiere was broadcast live on BR-KLASSIK, extending its reach to a wider audience.
The Production
Directed by Lotte de Beer and conducted by Nathalie Stutzmann, this production of “Faust” offers a fresh interpretation of the classic opera. The opera itself is based on a French adaptation of Goethe’s “Faust,” specifically Michel Carré’s “Faust et Marguerite,” a drame fantastique co-authored with Jules Barbier. The libretto draws inspiration from Gérard de Nerval’s translation of Goethe’s work, focusing on the love story between Faust and Marguerite, with a touch of the supernatural.
Jonathan Tetelman starred in the title role of Faust. BR-KLASSIK transmitted the premiere live, showcasing the performance to listeners beyond the confines of the Munich Nationaltheater.
Musical Highlights and Context
Gounod’s “Faust” is a blend of opéra comique and Grand Opéra, characterized by its melodic strength, skillful instrumentation, and effective staging. The work explores themes of love, death, and the influence of the devil.
The ARD-Nachtkonzert, a program broadcast on Bayern 2 and other ARD radio stations, featured music from Gounod’s “Faust” in its broadcast on March 28, 2026, including the ballet music performed by the Orchestre Symphonique de Montréal under Charles Dutoit. The program also included works by Camille Saint-Saëns and Johann Sebastian Bach.
Broadcast Details and Related Performances
BR-KLASSIK regularly broadcasts live performances and complete recordings from major opera houses, including Munich, Milan, and New York. The broadcast of “Faust” is part of this ongoing commitment to bringing operatic performances to a broad audience.
the Bavarian Radio Symphony Orchestra and Chorus are featured on the Qobuz streaming platform, with recordings of works by composers including Richard Strauss and Maurice Ravel.