Prepare for a night of passion, obsession, and psychological intrigue as “Salome”, Richard Strauss’ electrifying opera, comes to the historic Teatro di San Carlo. Based on Oscar Wilde’s play, “Salome” tells the dark and gripping story of the eponymous princess and her dangerous infatuation with the prophet Jochanaan (John the Baptist). The opera captures the climactic events of Salome’s demand for Jochanaan’s head, a desire fueled by lust, rejection, and power. Strauss’ music—rich with dissonant harmonies and bold orchestration—heightens the tension and drama of this disturbing tale, leading to one of the most shocking finales in all of opera. The infamous “Dance of the Seven Veils” encapsulates Salome’s seductive power and the frenzy she provokes in those around her, making this opera a masterpiece of both psychological depth and dramatic intensity.
Teatro di San Carlo, Italy’s oldest and one of the most prestigious opera houses, provides the perfect venue for this darkly enchanting work. This 2024/2025 season production features acclaimed soprano Ricarda Merbeth in the title role, whose portrayal of Salome’s volatile emotions promises to be both chilling and captivating. Baritone Brian Mulligan stars as Jochanaan, bringing gravitas to his portrayal of the tormented prophet. The production is directed by Manfred Schweighofler, with a visually stunning set by Nicola Rubertelli and dramatic lighting by Claudio Schmid, creating a nightmarish palace where the fate of these characters plays out. Under the baton of conductor Dan Ettinger, Strauss’ rich and complex score will come to life, with the powerful orchestra of Teatro di San Carlo navigating the musical heights and depths of this one-act tour de force. For anyone seeking a gripping, visceral opera experience, “Salome” at Teatro di San Carlo is a must-see event in the heart of Naples.
Travel Package Teatro San Carlo Naples
Music trip to Naples for 3 days / 2 nights with premium tickets for the opera Salome at the Teatro San Carlo Naples.
The travel package includes 3 days with 2 nights in one of our selected hotels in Naples and is put together according to your wishes. You can choose between the Essential and Superior packages, request additional nights, and a subsequent program to explore Sorrento, the Amalfi Coast and Italy.
Teatro San Carlo
The San Carlo Theater was built in 1737 and is the oldest opera house in the world. The Italian opera temple San Carlo is a symbol of the city of Naples. Enjoy our music package with a magnificent performance and an exclusive leisure program in Naples. You can select between the essential package and add individual services that we offer with the superior program.
The highlight is an opera or ballet at the famous Teatro San Carlo.
The Story of Salome
“Salome” by Richard Strauss premiered in Dresden in 1905 and was an immediate sensation, pushing the boundaries of both musical composition and operatic drama. Based on the controversial play by Oscar Wilde, “Salome” was initially regarded as scandalous for its subject matter, which includes sexual desire, religious themes, and a shocking murder. Wilde’s play, translated into German by Hedwig Lachmann, provided Strauss with the libretto, and the composer’s daring score matched the boldness of the text. The music of “Salome” was revolutionary, using extreme chromaticism, lush orchestration, and sudden, jarring shifts in tone to reflect the psychological complexity of the characters, particularly Salome herself.
Though its initial reception was mixed—censorship and bans in several cities only added to its notoriety—”Salome” quickly established itself as a milestone in 20th-century opera. Its daring themes and innovative use of harmony influenced composers like Gustav Mahler and Arnold Schoenberg. Over time, “Salome” became recognized not only for its shocking content but for its artistic merit and the technical mastery of Strauss’ score. Today, it is considered one of the greatest operas of the modern era, frequently performed around the world. The title role is one of the most demanding in the soprano repertoire, requiring both vocal brilliance and intense dramatic ability. For more than a century, “Salome” has continued to captivate audiences with its darkly sensual and emotionally charged narrative.
The Artists and Creative Team
Drama in one act
Music by Richard Strauss
Libretto by Hedwig Lachmann, after Oscar Wilde
Orchestra of Teatro di San Carlo
Sung in German, with Italian and English surtitles
Running time: approx. 1 hour and 40 minutes, without interval
Production of Teatro di San Carlo
Conductor • Dan Ettinger
ReStage Direction • Manfred Schweighofler
Set Design • Nicola Rubertelli
Costumes Design • Kathrin Dorigo
Lighting Design • Claudio Schmid
Cast
Herodes • Charles Workman
Herodias • Emily Magee
Salome • Ricarda Merbeth
Jochanaan • Brian Mulligan
Narraboth • John Findon
Ein Page der Herodias / A page of Herodias • Štěpánka Pučálková
Erster Jude / First Jude • Gregory Bonfatti
Zweiter Jude / Second Jude • Kristofer Lundin
Dritter Jude / Third Jew • Sun Tianxuefei
Vierter Jude / Fourth Jew • Dan Karlström
Fünfter Jude / Fifth Jew • Stanislav Vorobyov
Erster Nazarener / First Nazarene • Liam James Karai
Zweiter Nazarener / Second Nazarene • Žilvinas Miškinis
Erster Soldat / First Soldier • Dominic Barberi
Zweiter Soldat / Second Soldier • Artur Janda
Ein Kappadozier / A Cappadocian • Giacomo Mercaldo
Ein Sklave / A slave • Vasco Maria Vagnoli
Booking Process
Music trip toNaples for 3 days / 2 nights with premium tickets for the opera “Salome”. The highlight is a visit to the famous Teatro San Carlo on the second evening to experience a magnificent performance in a world-famous environment with global stars. You can select between Essential and Superior Package.
Each travel package will be composed according to your wishes. Follow the booking process:
- Select a Date
- Press “Add to cart” and “Send Request”
- When we receive your booking request, you will get an individual offer with some hotels to choose from. Only after your decision, we send you a travel contract to confirm the booking.
- Description of the Essential and Superior Package
Tag:
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Performance Dates of Salome
Events
Operas, Ballets, Concerts of the Season 2024 / 2025
In Naples at the Teatro di San Carlo







