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The Real History of Opera 2/4 The Threepenny Opera
Tuesday 18 October 2005 13:30-14:00 (Radio 4 FM)
Repeated: Saturday 22 October 2005 15:30-16:00 (Radio 4 FM)
Huw Edwards uncovers the history and social context behind operas.
The Threepenny Opera by Kurt Weill is a simple story of 18th century life in London's Soho - or so it would seem. The Beggar's Opera, on which it was based, is a satirical panning of British society and establishment, with Prime Minister Sir Robert Walpole and the composer Handel directly in the line of fire. Both operas were runaway successes.
Huw Edwards looks at why The Threepenny Opera was as relevant and explosive to its 20th century Weimar Republic audience as its predecessor was in 18th century London.
