Der Kaiser von Hondu

The collaboration between Kurt Schwaen and the author Günter Kunert shaped music theatre for children and young people in the GDR. Their satire on the American occupation of a fi ctitious Asian island Hondu is, however, closer to a play with music than a traditional opera. Schwaen’s music for jazz combo is principally employed to form interludes between the acts. The only singing role, ‘Th e Singing Soldier’, is rooted in the tradition of Brechtian sprechgesang, as are the ensemble numbers. Suitable for young adults aged 14 and older.