The prologue to Wagner’s Ring cycle unfolds. Beginning with this production, the KNO will present Wagner’s Ring series in sequence through 2028, embarking on a long journey together with its audiences. With its monumental orchestration and meticulously constructed musical architecture, the work reveals the archetypes of human emotion. It offers profound resonance to those who seek the pure beauty of opera. Returning to the podium is Lothar Königs, whose powerful conducting captivated audiences in Die tote Stadt in 2024. Renowned for his uncompromising musical vision, anticipation is high for how his approach will shape Wagner’s vast and complex sound world. Joining him is director Lorenzo Fioroni, who brought both wit and incisive social satire to L’amour des Trois Oranges. Fioroni brings his own sensibility and color to Das Rheingold, infusing the work with renewed vitality.​

In the Rhine, three Rhinemaidens guard a treasure of gold. Alberich, a greedy dwarf, is mocked when he tries to win their affection and is told that only one who renounces love can claim the gold’s power. Enraged, he curses love, steals the gold, and escapes. At the same time, Wotan, ruler of the gods, has the giants build Valhalla in exchange for Freia, the goddess of youth and beauty. The other gods strongly object, fearing the loss of their youth without her. Learning that Alberich has forged a ring from the Rhine gold, Wotan takes the ring as a substitute payment. When Wotan seizes the ring, Alberich lays a curse upon it, warning that whoever possesses it will become its slave and meet ruin. A mysterious goddess appears and warns Wotan of the curse, and he ultimately hands the ring over to the giants. The brothers soon quarrel, and one kills the other. The gods then enter the completed Valhalla, unaware of the tragedy the ring will bring.