Johan Reuter celebrates Nielsen anniversary as Saul

Morten Staugaard (left) and Johan Reuter (right)(Photo: Signe Roderik)

The Royal Opera in Copenhagen is celebrating the 150th anniversary of the birth of the Danish composer Carl Nielsen with a new production of the composer’s first opera, Saul and David. Barihunk Johan Reuter will be singing the role of Saul opposite the David of tenor Niels Jørgen Riis.

Saul and David, which is is the first of the two operas by Nielsen, tells the story of King Saul who is fiercely jealous of the young David, who has won the favor of the people by defeating the giant, Goliath. The story comes from the Book of Samuel in the Bible.

Watch Saul & David in its entirety from the Royal Opera's 1986 production:

The first performance was at Det Kongelige Teater in Copenhagen in 1902.  The opera is one of Denmark's most important musical works and dates from the period preceding his Second Symphony. The dramatic and lyrical score is perhaps best remembered for its choral scenes.

The Royal Opera production will be conducted by Michael Schønwandt, one of the world’s greatest Carl Nielsen interpreters. Performance run from April 17-June 9 and tickets are available online.