The Resurgence of Folklore in Modern Opera: A Look at Franz Martin Olbrisch’s “Do Kvre – Bis aufs Blut”
A new radio opera, “Do kvre – bis aufs Blut” (To the Blood), by Berlin-based composer Franz Martin Olbrisch, premiering February 14, 2026, on hr2-kultur, signals a growing trend: the re-examination of traditional folklore as source material for contemporary artistic expression. The work draws upon three tales from Karel Jaromír Erben’s 1853 collection, “Kytice z povĕstí národních” (Bouquet of National Tales) – “Vodník” (The Water Sprite), “Záhořovo lože” (Záhoř’s Bed), and “Polenice” (Noon Witch).
Why Folklore is Finding a New Audience
For centuries, folklore served as a means of cultural transmission, embodying societal values, fears, and beliefs. While often relegated to academic study or children’s stories, these narratives are experiencing a revival in artistic mediums like opera, theatre, and film. This resurgence isn’t merely nostalgic; it reflects a deeper human need for connection to ancestral roots and a search for meaning in a rapidly changing world.
The Appeal of Darker Themes
Erben’s tales, and the selection made by Olbrisch, aren’t simple fairy tales. They delve into darker aspects of the human condition, exploring themes of weakness and vulnerability in extraordinary circumstances. This aligns with a broader trend in contemporary art towards exploring complex and often unsettling emotions. The opera’s title itself, “Do kvre – bis aufs Blut” (To the Blood), hints at this raw and visceral exploration.
Blending Tradition with Innovation
Olbrisch’s approach isn’t simply a retelling of these ancient stories. The production, featuring vocalists Lisa Fornhammer, Katharina Salden, Stefan Kunath, Cornelius Uhle, and speakers Alice Stašková and Jakob Hiekel, alongside the Dresdner Ensemble El Perro Andaluz, integrates recitation of the original Czech texts with vocal performances that shift and evolve. This layering of languages and perspectives creates a textured and dynamic experience. The use of concrete sounds and instrumental color further enhances the atmosphere, moving beyond traditional operatic conventions.
The Role of Radio Opera in Artistic Experimentation
The choice of a radio opera format is significant. It allows for a greater focus on sound design and narrative storytelling, unburdened by the visual demands of stage productions. This freedom encourages experimentation and allows the composer to fully explore the sonic possibilities of the material. The realization of the work by SWR/hr 2023 underscores the support for innovative approaches to operatic form.
The Czech Folklore Renaissance
Karel Jaromír Erben (1811-1870) was a pivotal figure in Czech folklore studies. His collection, “Kytice,” remains a cornerstone of Czech literary heritage. The renewed interest in his work, as evidenced by Olbrisch’s opera, speaks to a broader cultural movement within the Czech Republic to reclaim and reinterpret its national identity through its rich folkloric traditions.
FAQ
What is “Kytice z povĕstí národních”? It is a collection of old Bohemian tales published in 1853 by Karel Jaromír Erben.
Who composed “Do kvre – bis aufs Blut”? The opera was composed by Franz Martin Olbrisch.
Where and when will “Do kvre – bis aufs Blut” be broadcast? It will be broadcast on hr2-kultur on February 14, 2026, at 23:00 Uhr.
What tales from Erben’s collection are used in the opera? The opera uses “Vodník” (The Water Sprite), “Záhořovo lože” (Záhoř’s Bed), and “Polenice” (Noon Witch).
What is the duration of the opera? The opera is 55 minutes long.
Did you know? Karel Jaromír Erben also compiled “Folk Songs of Bohemia” containing 500 songs and “Czech Folk Songs and Nursery Rhymes,” a five-part book gathering much of Czech folklore.
Explore more about contemporary opera and the power of folklore in shaping modern artistic expression. Share your thoughts on the resurgence of these ancient stories in the comments below!
