By Sebastian Bauer
From Mozart and Verdi to Puccini and Offenbach, star tenor Rolando Villazón (50) has sung many great operas. His role as a box in the new “Ring des Nibelungen” at the State Opera is still a big milestone for him, as he reveals to the BZ with shining eyes.
The first part of the Wagner cycle, “Rheingold”, celebrates its premiere on Sunday, directed by Dmitri Tscherniakov. Christian Thielemann takes over the musical direction in place of Daniel Barenboim, who is absent due to illness. We met Rolando Villazón in advance at the Westin Grand Hotel.
BZ: Is a role in the “Ring” still a big dream for a big opera star like you, or is it now a role like others?
Rolando Villazon: It’s still a big dream! And a big responsibility. I’ve wanted this role for years. One of the greatest interpreters of the Loge, Graham Clark, advised me in London in 2006 that I should absolutely sing this role. At the time I wasn’t so sure if I could do it. But one day I told Daniel Barenboim about it. And in 2017 he offered me the role. I worked hard at the lodge for three years.
Christian Thielemann has taken over as musical director for Daniel Barenboim due to illness. Is that a difference for you?
Of course it’s different. Luckily, I was able to work out the role with Daniel Barenboim for a few months. That was a real master class! And now Christian Thielemann comes and teaches another master class about the “Ring”. His knowledge of Wagner is incredible, he knows every word. That’s very interesting because it’s my first opera with him.
Born in Mexico, he describes his appearance in “The Ring” as one of his dream roles Photo: Sven Darmer
Christian Thielemann is considered very strict and demanding, even bossy. Is that sometimes tiring?
He’s very clear and specific about what he wants, while still being kind to people. He clearly indicates what he likes and what he doesn’t like. And when you follow your vision, it’s wonderful. Even if it is musically or artistically challenging – I love these kinds of difficulties.
You have many Russian colleagues and often performed with Anna Netrebko. Do you talk to them about the Russian war?
Everyone can privately think what he or she wants. Basically, if someone is openly racist and homophobic or openly supports Putin today, then a limit must be reached for us as a society. Of course, I am happy to discuss with these people why they are wrong.
Will you ever perform in Russia again?
There must be a special situation. If I could do a concert in Russia for the Ukrainian victims or for the freedom of Ukraine, I would do it. But you know that is currently unthinkable. However, I think it’s a mistake not to perform any more Russian music. That only plays into the hands of Putin.
October 2nd, 15th, 29th, Unter den Linden 7, 83-1108 euros for the whole cycle, staatsoper-berlin.eventim-inhouse.de