The Flying Dutchman

The Flying Dutchman, a cursed sea captain, sails his phantom ship across the world’s oceans. Only true love can save him and every seven years he is allowed one night to venture ashore in search of the right bride. The Flying Dutchman was only Wagner's second opera to be successfully staged but its brooding tension, boundless energy and haunting melodies ensure it is still a firm favourite today.

The Cast

This co-production with Opera Queensland stars Jason Howard as The Dutchman, Christchurch-born bass Paul Whelan as Daland, and Irish soprano Orla Boylan as Senta.

The Story

Off the Norwegian coast, a community of women are yearning for the return of their men. But Senta is obsessed with a different passion - she fantasises about the myth of the Flying Dutchman, and longs to save his tormented soul. When her father, Daland, is caught out in a storm at sea, he catches sight of the blood-red sails of the Dutchman’s ship and invites the stranger home, never dreaming of the captain’s true identity.

Accompanied by the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra
and the Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra

Featuring the Chapman Tripp Opera Chorus

Sung in German with English surtitles

A co-production with Opera Queensland

*WARNING: contains nudity.