Der Goggolori facts for kids
Der Goggolori is an opera, which is like a play where most of the story is sung. This special opera was created by Wilfried Hiller, who wrote the music, and Michael Ende, who wrote the story (called a libretto) in German. It was first performed in Munich, Germany, on February 3, 1985, at the Staatstheater am Gärtnerplatz.
What is Der Goggolori About?
The story of Der Goggolori comes from an old folk tale from Bavaria, a region in Germany. It tells about a time when people had different beliefs. Some followed older traditions (sometimes called Paganism), while others followed newer ones (Christianity).
The Story's Setting
The opera is set during the Thirty Years' War. This was a long and difficult war in Europe, mostly in Germany, that lasted from 1618 to 1648. It was a time of big changes and challenges for many people.
The Main Conflict
The opera explores the clash between these old and new ways of thinking. It shows how people dealt with different beliefs and how these differences could lead to conflict. The story uses characters and events from the folk tale to bring this idea to life on stage.
Who are the Characters?
An opera needs many characters to tell its story. Here are some of the main roles in Der Goggolori:
- The Goggolori: A special character, sung by a tenor voice.
- Zeipoth: A young farm girl, sung by a soprano voice.
- Irwing: Zeipoth's father, who is a weaver and farmer, sung by a bass voice.
- Weberin (Weaver): Zeipoth's mother, sung by a contralto voice.
- Aberwin: A young musician who also makes charcoal, sung by a bass voice.
- The Hermit: A wise person who lives alone, this role is spoken, not sung.
- Ullerin: A healer, barber, and witch, sung by a bass voice with a high falsetto.
- Der Goggolori in another shape: Another version of the Goggolori, this role is also spoken.
- Puppeteers and farmers: These are other characters who help tell the story.
