The Singapore Symphony Orchestra pairs two large-scale works at Esplanade Concert Hall on Friday, 24 July 2026. Hannu Lintu conducts Richard Strauss’s Also sprach Zarathustra before Bartók’s one-act opera Bluebeard’s Castle.
The 7.30pm concert runs about two hours including a 20-minute interval. Bass-baritone Shenyang sings Bluebeard and mezzo-soprano Jennifer Johnston performs Judith, with English surtitles for the opera.
What You Will Hear
Strauss opens the programme with the work whose sunrise is one of classical music’s most recognisable beginnings. The score then travels through contrasting sections inspired by Nietzsche, giving the full orchestra a vivid showcase.
After the interval, Bluebeard’s Castle moves into a darker psychological world. Judith asks Bluebeard to open seven locked doors, and Bartók uses orchestral colour to reveal what words avoid.
- Strauss: Also sprach Zarathustra.
- Bartók: Duke Bluebeard’s Castle.
- Conductor: Hannu Lintu.
Tickets And Performers
Standard ticket categories are S$15, S$30, S$40, S$55, S$75 and S$100 before SISTIC booking fees. The performance is recommended for ages seven and above.
A narrator introduces the prologue, while lighting and surtitles support the concert staging. This is not a fully staged opera with elaborate sets; the orchestra and vocal drama remain central.
- Date: 24 July 2026 at 7.30pm.
- Venue: Esplanade Concert Hall.
- Duration: about two hours including intermission.
Before The Concert
Read a short synopsis of Bluebeard before arrival if you prefer to follow the symbolism without relying entirely on surtitles. For Zarathustra, listening only to the famous opening can be misleading; the complete piece is considerably more varied.
More performance picks appear in Little Big Red Dot’s Entertainment coverage.
- Arrive before the doors close; late seating may be restricted.
- Check SISTIC fees before payment.
- Use Esplanade MRT or the sheltered City Hall route.
