The Ring of Polykrates

Tonight we joined a few friends for the Dress Rehearsal of the Dallas Opera's The Ring of Polykrates.  

It is the story of Court Music Director Wilhelm Arndt. He has just been promoted at work, the recent death of his aunt has left him with a large inheritance, and he has a wonderful wife, Laura. He is a lucky man.  All he is missing is the company of his old friend, Peter Vogel, who suddenly shows up out of the blue.

Jealous of the life Wilhelm has built, and infatuated by Laura, Peter tries to split them up. Peter convinces Wilhelm that he must sacrifice something so that fate is not tempted by all his good fortune. In an effort to sacrifice his relationship with his wife, Wilhelm tries to start a fight with Laura about her questionable past. However, Laura’s love for her husband will not be shaken. Wilhelm realizes that the true sacrifice must be his friendship with Peter, who is sent on his way.  

This Viennese Operetta is by Erich Wolfgang Korngold. The opera was preceded by Korngold’s magnificent Violin Concerto in D major.  The Concerto was magnificent with 25+ violins, 10 cellos, 10 violas and 6 basses!  Incredible! 

The Lord has done great things for us;

    we are glad.  Restore our fortunes, O Lord,

    like streams in the Negeb!  Psalm 126:3-4