Serge Prokofiev (1891-1953)
Le Joueur, opéra en 4 actes

Sean Panikkar, ténor (Alexei Ivanovich)
Asmik Grigorian, soprano (Polina)
Violeta Urmana, soprano (Antonida Vasilevna Tarasevicheva)
Peixin Chen, basse (Le Général)
Juan Francisco Gatell, ténor (Le Marquis)
Michael Arivony, baryton (Mr. Astley)
Nicole Chirka, mezzo-soprano (Blanche)
Joseph Parrish, basse-baryton (Poyapych)
Zhengyi Bai, ténor (Prince Nilsky)
Ilia Kazakov, basse (Baron Wurmerhelm)
Konzertvereinigung Wiener Staatsopernchor
Wiener Philharmoniker
Timur Zangiev, direction
Peter Sellars, mise en scène

Based on a short novel by Dostoyevsky, Prokofiev's The Gambler unfolds in the fictional casino town of Roulettenburg, where a variety of characters converge and clash. These characters include a General indebted to a covetous Marquis, the General's resentful stepdaughter Polina, and Alexey, who harbors feelings for her. Director Peter Sellars, known for his insightful interpretations of overlooked masterpieces, challenges us to mirror the bravery of Dostoyevsky and Prokofiev – the courage to confront our inner darkness. The musical direction of Russian conductor Timur Zangiev shines together with the vocal performances of the exceptional cast: "Asmik Grigorian portraying a passionate Polina, and Sean Panikkar delivering a powerful performance as Alexei" (Financial Times)