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MUNICH OPERA FESTIVAL - 2024 bdr

Munich and visit the Royal Palace of Linderhof

Munich Opera Festival: A Harmonious Ode to Grandeur and Artistry
Experience an unforgettable blend of art, emotion, and culture at the Munich Opera Festival in 2024. Immerse yourself in a captivating opera world where impressive performances meet intricate customs and history. HAT Tours has visiting this enchanting festival for over two decades, and we would be honored to share this extraordinary event with you.

TANNHÄUSER - A Tale of Love and Struggle 
Conductor Sebastian Weigle, hailing from DDR-East Berlin, takes the baton to guide you through the epic Journey of "Tannhäuser." Under the visionary production of Romeo Castelucci, this masterpiece unravels with breathtaking drama. Join Hermann, portrayed by the remarkable Ain Anger, as he navigates the complexities of love and desire. Klaus Florian Vogt embodies the titular character Tannhäuser, leading you through a profound exploration of inner conflict and external challenges. With a cast of stellar performers, including André Schuen, Jonas Hacker, and Marlis Petersen, this opera is a symphony of emotions that resonates deep within.

PÉLLÉAS AND MÉLISANDE - Elegance and Mystery 
Enjoy an enchanting evening of French opera featuring "Pelléas and Mélisande" led by Mirga Grazinyté-Tyla. Experience the delicate story brought to life by Jetske Mijnssen's production and captivating performances by Ben Bliss and Sabine Devielhe as Pelléas and Mélisande. Join us for a night of lyrical enchantment with Sophie Koch and Christian Gerhaher, also part of the cast.

PARSIFAL - A Quest for Redemption 
Under the baton of Adam Fischer, the Hungarian conductor, "Parsifal" unfolds with epic grandeur. Pierre Audi's production transports you to a realm of mysticism and redemption. Join Gerald Finley as Amfortas, Balint Szabo as Titurel, and Nina Stemme as Kundry as they guide you through these knights, quests, and ultimate redemption saga. Clay Hillery embodies Parsifal's Journey, a tale of transformation and self-discovery. With a cast of exceptional performers, this opera takes you on an odyssey of the soul.

LA FANCIULLA DEL WEST - A Frontier of Passion 
Juraj Valcuha, a Slovakian conductor, leads "La Fanciulla del West" with finesse. Andreas Dresen's direction introduces you to the rugged charm of the Wild West. Join Malin Bystrom as Minnie, a character of strength and allure. Together with Michael Volle and Yongoon Lee, the vibrant characters of the operatic canvas indeed come to life, embodying the essence of the Wild West. Through the artistry of the soloists and the evocative storytelling, this opera offers a passionate and unforgettable journey.

TOSCA - A Tale of Love and Intrigue 
Conductor Andrea Battistoni's baton guides you through the twists and turns of "Tosca," a masterpiece Kornél Mundruczo's vision brings to life. Anja Harteros embodies Floria Tosca, her voice resonating with fiery passion. Joined by Jonas Kaufmann as Mario Cavaradossi and Ludovic Téruer as Baron Scarpia, the opera weaves a tale of love, jealousy, and sacrifice. Prepare to be enthralled by the power of their performances as they navigate the world of political intrigue and emotional turmoil.

Your Journey Beyond the Stage
As you immerse yourself in the opulent world of the Munich Opera Festival, remember that your journey extends beyond the stage. Embrace Munich's rich history and vibrant culture, a city where tradition and modernity entwine harmoniously. Wander through charming streets, explore local treasures, and create a narrative that intertwines with the melodies of the operatic masterpieces you'll experience. Your voyage through Munich becomes a symphony of exploration where tradition, art, and history harmoniously converge.

Indulgence in Luxury 
As you embark on this operatic odyssey, your accommodations match the grandeur of the performances. Experience the ultimate comfort and sophistication at the newly renovated 5-star Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten Kempinski, located only a block from the Bavarian State Opera. Enjoy eight nights of pure indulgence and treat yourself to delectable meals at the finest gourmet restaurants in Munich.

Join Us for an Unforgettable Overture 
The Munich Opera Festival invites you to take center stage in a realm of artistic splendor and cultural immersion. Your Journey through Munich becomes a symphony of exploration and inspiration, where the magic of opera intertwines with the enchantment of a vibrant city. Secure your spot in this grand operatic event, and get ready to be mesmerized, touched, and uplifted. Ensure your place in this magnificent operatic occasion, and prepare to be captivated, moved, and inspired.

Opera Performances

In Munich:  
July 21 – Tannhäuser by Wagner
July 22 – Pélléas and Mélisande by Debussy
July 23 – Parsifal by Wagner
July 24 – Concert at the Rococo Cuvilliés Theater (works by Samuel Coleridge-Taylor)
July 26 – La Fanciulla del West by Puccini
July 27 – Tosca by Puccini

Itinerary
  • Friday, July 19. (D)* DEPART FOR MUNICH
    Depart this evening, aboard any airline of your choice to Munich, Germany arriving the next morning. Dinner and light breakfast served on the plane.
  • Saturday, July 20. (B,D). MUNICH
    Upon arrival at Munich International Airport take a taxi to the super deluxe centrally located VIER JAHRESZEITEN KEMPINSKI HOTEL, where you stay 8 nights in Premium Rooms. This evening, we will have our Gala Welcome dinner at the hotel’s gourmet restaurant.
    Munich has more to offer than the BMW car factory and the 110 million gallons of beer brewed annually. For a city of its size, it has one of the finest collections of art within one museum, the Alte, and the Neue Pinakothek, and the Deutsches Museum started in 1903, to show one of the most important collections of scientific and technical matters in the world. Munich’s cultural wealth, its atmosphere – a blend of gayety, tolerance, and respect for traditions have combined to make it one of the most appreciated German cities.
  • Sunday, July 21. (B). MUNICH
    Morning sightseeing of this third largest city in Germany begins with a drive around the city to see the Olympic Park, the site of the 1972 Summer Olympics, the BMW headquarters, Nymphenburg Palace, and the 2 square miles of the English gardens with several beer gardens. Tonight, we will see the opera TANNHÄUSER by Wagner at the Bayerische Staatsoper.
  • Monday, July 22. (B). MUNICH
    This morning, we will take a walking tour of the Old City, founded by the monks of the Benedictine Order. We visit Marienplatz, the city hall with its famous Clock Tower, the churches of Our Lady, Holy Spirit, and Saint Peters, and to see Richard Strauss Fountain with bas reliefs showing scenes from his opera Salome. Afternoon free. Tonight, we will see the opera PELLÉAS and MÉLISANDE by Debussy at the Prinzregententheater.
  • Tuesday, July 23. (B). MUNICH
    Today is free to stroll along any of the four Grand Royal Avenues of the 19th century with magnificent official buildings leading to music quarters, state ministries, and palaces. This evening, we will see the opera PARSIFAL by Wagner at the Bayerische Staatsoper.

  • Wednesday, July 24. (B,L). MUNICH
    This morning, we will visit Alte Pinakothek to see the notable art pieces from the 19th century. The Neue Pinakothek is undergoing renovations so that you can see its highlighted artworks at the Alte Pinakothek. Light lunch is included in the famous Café Klenze or Luitpold. This evening, we will hear a CONCERT in the beautiful rococo Cuvilliés Theater with works by Samuel Coleridge-Taylor.
  • Thursday, July 25. (B,D). MUNICH
    Today, you will visit the Bavarian Opera House - Bayerische Staatsoper, for an exclusive private tour. Located in the popular Maximilianstrasse, just steps from the Old Town, the so-called National Theater building is home to the Opera, the Bavarian State Orchestra, and the Bavarian State Ballet, and it is the largest opera house in Germany. In 1810, King Maximilian I commissioned the construction of this building which underwent bombing during WWII but was reconstructed in 1963. This prestigious venue saw the premieres of compositions by renowned composers such as Richard Wagner, Richard Strauss, and Mozart.
    Join rehearsals to explore the world's third largest stage and backstage area. Get invited to the King's Box, which hosted 200+ private performances for King Ludwig II. Gala Farewell Dinner tonight at a gourmet restaurant.
  • Friday, July 26. (B). MUNICH
    This morning, we will walk to the stunning and largest palace in Germany, the RESIDENZ PALACE, for a tour to see displays from former collections. We will also visit the small, beautiful rococo Cuvillies-Theater.  This evening, we will see the opera LA FANCIULLA DEL WEST by Puccini at the Bayerische Staatsoper.
  • Saturday, July 27. (B,L) MUNICH
    This morning we drive south of Munich to see the amazing Royal Palace of Linderhof. In 1868, King Ludwig II of Bavaria acquired the Linderhof for his Royal Palace modeled on Versailles. Richard Wagner’s great opera cycles might not exist were it not for the support of his patron Ludwig II. His enormous fairy-tale castles, which virtually bankrupted the country, were the grand sets, where no expense was spared for the staging of Wagner’s operas. Often performed with Ludwig as the sole member of the audience, and in return Wagner gave him his genius and his love. Lunch is included. This evening, we will see the opera TOSCA by Puccini at the Bayerische Staatsoper.
  • Sunday, July 28. (B). MUNICH - BACK HOME
    Depart from the hotel to the airport, for your flight back home, arriving the same afternoon. Auf Wiedersehn. See you again on another HAT TOUR. 
LAND COST
Double: $11,950 per person
Single Supplement: $1,950
Deposit: $2,500 per person
Balance due: April 19, 2024
TOUR INCLUDES
  • 1st Category Orchestra Level seats in The Bavarian State Opera
  • 8 nights in Premium rooms at the Deluxe Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten Kempinski Hotel
  • Buffet breakfast daily, 2 dinners with wine in gourmet restaurants and one lunch
  • Five operas and one concert
  • Welcome reception with drinks
  • Guided tours as listed in the itinerary by our special, state authorized Munich guide
  • Excursion to the beautiful Royal Palace of Linderhoff
  • Guide, driver and bellboy’s gratuities
  • Complete package with details of operas listed 
AIRFARE
Airfare is not included. Please make sure that your airline ticket reads from home to Munich and from Munich back home. We urge you to check airline cancellation penalties before purchasing airline tickets since international departure times and flights can change. We can assist you at no cost to find the most convenient flights from home to Munich and return from Munich back home.
INSURANCE
Trip cancellation is highly recommended. Some policies wave pre-existing medical conditions if purchased within 15 days of receiving the deposit.
SEND YOUR DEPOSIT TO

HAT Tours LLC

8606 Hunters Village Rd #271

Tampa, FL 33647 

Phone toll free: (800) 472-4448

Fax: (727) 360-8459
E-mail: operas@hattours.com
www.EuropeanOperaTours.com

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Testimonial
Clients Comments:

Excellent seats for superb performances of great operas in the best houses; the chance to explore and revisit inexhaustibly rich cities; the opportunity to meet and talk with small groups of like-minded enthusiasts from around the world; superb meals and five-star hotels: HAT Tours supplies all of these things, and more. But what is especially distinctive – and what will keep us coming back again and again – is the perfect balance of hyperefficient organisation with relaxed informality. The walking-groups and bus-tours are always there (and always worthwhile), but if you’d rather wander off by yourself to a gallery or go shopping, there’s no hassle; if an unforeseen opportunity comes up to attend an extra concert or recital, tickets will be found; if you decide to extend your stay in order to take in additional performances, seats will be booked; if a problem arises, Grethe and Aspee will find a way to solve it. Coming across them on the internet in 2014 when we were searching for some way to get to an oversubscribed Ring Cycle in Vienna has been one of the happiest discoveries of our opera-going lives.

Robert Dingley and Elizabeth Lawson, Australia