Spectacular abstraction!

This is a fairly abstract production that some people won't like! However, it works well overall, and is quite spectacular in places - especially with the amount of fire (real flames!) and smoke in Niebelheim.

The casting is reasonable - and the Niebelungs (presumably played by children) look grotesque and non-human, just as they should (rather than being men with minor's helmets and goggles as in some other productions).

My biggest quible is with the use of a platform that extends from the stage around the orchestra pit. This is used effectively, but does draw your attention to the orchestra - the opposite of what Wagner intended. Also, there is some terrible playing from the brass section at the start, although after this they're fine.

Well worth a look for the open-minded Wagnerian!