Wagner.Ring | Julie Depardieu & Ensemble minui
29.08.26 > 19:30

For one evening, ensemble minui and Julie Depardieu lead us into the heart of one of the most monumental works in operatic history: Wagner’s Der Ring der Nibelungen (Ring Cycle), presented here in the witty condensation by Loriot, The Ring in an Evening in which the 20th-century German humorist achieved the remarkable feat of distilling Wagner’s sixteen-hour tetralogy into a concise and humorous narrative.

Rooted in Germanic mythology and inspired by medieval legends surrounding Siegfried, this ambitious cycle unfolds as a prologue, Das Rheingold, followed by three “days”: Die Walküre, Siegfried and Götterdämmerung. At its core lies the theft of gold endowed with absolute power, forged into a cursed ring. Two rival lineages — that of Wotan, king of the gods, and Alberich, ruler of the Nibelungs — will stop at nothing to possess it.

Founded in 2016, ensemble minui, composed of nine musicians, explores symphonic and operatic repertoire through the refined arrangements of clarinettist Stefan Potzmann. This “micro-orchestra” (five strings and four winds) creates a sound world that is both transparent and richly expressive. In a vivid dialogue between text and music, the French actress Julie Depardieu lends her voice to the narrative, transforming the concert into a theatrical storytelling experience.

Romane’s Preludes (1 hour before the concert)*

Are you passionate about classical music, intrigued by it, or does it feel like a foreign language? Sharpen your ears, awaken your curiosity, and join one of the Preludes led by our specialist. Enjoy 30 to 40 minutes of guided listening, context, discussion, and presentation in French. Six of our concerts are preceded by a free introductory talk. These engaging and welcoming sessions, open to all audiences, will take you to the heart of the music. One guiding principle: enjoyment!

*Romane Carbonnel, pianist, graduate of the Haute École de Musique Vaud-Valais-Fribourg (HEMU)

Programme

Excerpts from R. Wagner, The Ring of the Nibelung, Based on Loriot’s version Der Ring an einem Abend (The Ring in an Evening)

Arrangements by Stefan Potzmann