The American Symphony Orchestra
Conducted by Leon Botstein
Directed by Thaddeus Strassberger
Anton Rubinstein’s operatic masterpiece Demon first premiered to great acclaim in 1871. Although performed frequently in Russia, the work remains something of a rarity in the West today.
Based on the renowned fantasy poem by Mikhail Lermontov, Demon boasts rich choral writing and a fiery libretto. The work vividly depicts the isolation and despair of a fallen angel doomed to eternal damnation. All is upended by a chance encounter with the princess Tamara with whom he falls desperately in love. Tamara’s attempts to resist him and her eventual submission end in tragedy.
The 2018 Summerscape production will be conducted by Leon Botstein and directed by the renowned American director Thaddeus Strassberger with sets by Paul Tate dePoo and costumes by Kaye Voyce. An all-Russian cast will be led by the sparkling-voiced soprano Olga Tolkmit (last seen at Bard in Dimitrij) in the role of Tamara alongside baritone Efim Zavalny in his American debut in the title role.
Opening Night Reception for Members
Friday, July 27
Opera Talk with Leon Botstein
Sunday, July 29 at noon
Dine with us and save!
Out-of-Town Package—includes mainstage ticket, roundtrip bus from New York City, and three-course meal in the Spiegeltent. Purchase and save up to 25%.
Night Out Package—includes mainstage ticket and three-course meal in the Spiegeltent. Purchase and save up to 15%.
Available for select performances. Ticketing fees apply, gratuity and beverages not included.
Visiting us from the New York Metro Area?
Our luxury coach brings you round-trip from NYC's Upper West Side to the Fisher Center for just $40. SummerScape Coach from New York City offered Friday, July 27, August 3, and Sunday, July 29, August 5.
Purchase options available at checkout.
July 27 at 8 pm
July 29 at 2 pm
August 1 at 2 pm
August 3 at 2 pm
August 5 at 2 pm
Fisher Center, Sosnoff Theater
Tickets start at $25; $5 tickets for Bard undergraduate and graduate students are made possible by the Passloff Pass and available in advance for select performances.