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WNO's 'Flying Dutchman' Explores Life, Death, and Obsession

4/17/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The Flying Dutchman, by Richard Wagner, was inspired by his near-drowning experience in 1839.
Welsh National Opera's new staging, directed by Jack Furness (director), opens with a childbirth scene mirroring life and death.
Senta's fixation on the Dutchman embodies the tragedy at the tale's core.
The cast, including Simon Bailey (the Dutchman) and Rachel Nicholls (Senta), is led by Tomáš Hanus (conductor), delivering a powerful performance.

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Story summary

The Flying Dutchman, by Richard Wagner, was inspired by his near-drowning experience in 1839.
Welsh National Opera's new staging, directed by Jack Furness (director), opens with a childbirth scene mirroring life and death.
Senta's fixation on the Dutchman embodies the tragedy at the tale's core.
The cast, including Simon Bailey (the Dutchman) and Rachel Nicholls (Senta), is led by Tomáš Hanus (conductor), delivering a powerful performance.