In brief, the vast spectrum of spectacular visual effects in this production never ceased to amaze me, and nor did the elaborate, time-tested sets and costumes which served as the backdrop for this outstanding production.

Flowers and birds magically popped out of the sets, while eerily authentic thunder and lightning effects sent resonating and forebodingly sinister chills throughout the entire auditorium. Giant dancing animals, a fire-breathing dragon, a roaring stone lion, trapdoors leading to Hell, and a floating ship that carried the three guardian boys were only a handful of the countless surprises that awaited the dazzled audience at the Lyric. In this production, familiar to many, all the magic and mirth conjured up by both the opera’s epic story and the possibilities of modern technology were omnipresent. Just in time for Christmas and the ensuing month, the Lyric Opera of Chicago decided to revive its delightful, time-tested August Everding production for a magical night of mirth and music suitable for all ages.

A combination of fairy tale and Masonic/Judeo-Christian allegory, Mozart’s hallowed masterpiece has captured the hearts of countless individuals both young and old since its première in 1791.

Not surprisingly, young and old alike are perpetually drawn to Mozart’s fairytale fantasy, The Magic Flute. Indeed, what childhood would be complete without fairy tales and fantastical stories of knights, princesses, dragons, and talking animals? Even into adulthood, fantasy and fairy tales continue to capture the imagination of many. “Once Upon a Time…” No doubt, this has become one of the most familiar lines of childhood.

Lyric opera magic flute review