Music Theatre since 1990 - Schott Music

Synopsis
Augustinus von Hippo, Source: Württembergische Landesbibliothek
As in Wolkenstein, the centre of the church opera Augustinus is also a historical figure who
lived and was influential in a time of upheaval
and radical social and political changes. Augustinus,
philosopher, church teacher and bishop, was
born in the year 354 in Tagaste (Numidia, North
Africa) and died Hippo Regius in 430.
In seven tessellated scenes this opera follows
selected stages of this eminent scholar’s life.
He helped shape the world view of both the
ancient world and the beginning of the middle
ages with his writings. The opera starts with
scenes of Augustinus’ youth and his first work as
a professor of rethoric in Milan and concentrates
on the psychological development that led to
his spiritual awakening. The last scene ends with
a text from the famous Confessiones: ‘he who
is searching for God, will find him, and he who
finds him, will confess him’. The libretto was
written in collaboration with Augustinus’ specialist
Winfried Böhm.
Winfried Böhm has written an intelligent, well organised libretto, interlaced with quotes from
Augustinus, which keeps the balance between philosophical thoughts and dramatic elements. [...]
Wilfried Hiller has thought deeply about the mysteries that inform our thoughts and beliefs. Augustinus
was an impressive achievement of concentrated ascetic richness.
(Süddeutsche Zeitung, 21.03.2005)
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