Ernani

“Ernani” is not only a rarely performed early work from Verdi's operatic oeuvre, it also has a clear connection to the city of Aachen: For the third act is set in Aachen Cathedral, in the tomb of Charlemagne. There, in 1520, the Habsburg Charles V awaits his coronation and - a gang of conspirators. One of his opponents is Ernani - both politically and in love - because they both love Elvira. However, she is promised to old Silva, which is why Ernani wants to flee with her. Torn between intrigue and her sincere love for Ernani, Elvira finds it difficult to escape her situation. Ernani is also trapped in his oath to Silva. Although he has not handed Ernani over to Charles V as his guest, he has tied his life to one condition: If Silva sounds the horn, Ernani must take his own life. As with Victor Hugo, Verdi's “Ernani” combines historical fact and fiction to create a passionate drama. The music theater collective AGORA takes this as an opportunity for a spectacular journey through different times, aesthetic forms and places. Even Aachen Cathedral becomes the backdrop for a gripping evening of musical theater.