In a strict Calvinist community in the north of Scotland, young Bess falls in love with Jan, a Norwegian who works on a nearby oil rig. Shortly after their wedding, Jan narrowly survives a serious accident that leaves him paralyzed from the waist down. As a substitute for their now impossible physical relationship, Jan encourages his wife to sleep with other men and to tell him about it. Strengthened by her love and her faith, Bess goes against the moral code of her community and sacrifices herself for Jan, who feels increasingly better the further she pushes her own boundaries…
Lars von Trier’s successful film of the same name forms the basis for Missy Mazzoli’s highly acclaimed and award-winning musical theater piece. With an orchestral sound reminiscent of film music, Gaelic psalms, and intimate dialogues between instrument and singing voice, the American composer paints a nuanced portrait of the complex characters. With Bess, a childishly naive woman characterized by deep faith and shocking bravery, she brings “a new kind of heroine” to the operatic stage.
Director Krystian Lada, known for his impressive and innovative musical theater creations, is making his first appearance at the Mainz State Theater. Conductor Dirk Kaftan also makes his Mainz debut with the State Philharmonic Orchestra.