Workshop-Reihe zu Giuseppe Verdi und Alfred Hitchcock (16+)
1. October 2025
In this workshop series, we explore the role of chance as a dramaturgical device used to create suspenseful, unexpected twists and maximum impact. Both Verdi and Hitchcock employ chance as a central element that steers the fate of their characters and evokes profound tragedy – fate strikes mercilessly. We analyze the techniques of both artists and uncover fascinating, revealing parallels between their works. Using Verdi’s operas “La forza del destino”, “Macbeth”, “Un ballo in maschera”, as well as possibly “Il trovatore”, and selected films by Hitchcock, we compare the musical elements of Verdi’s compositions with the cinematic techniques of the master director. In doing so, we experience the art of chance in dramaturgy from a new perspective.
Led by: Thomas Binotto, Roger Lämmli
Workshop Dates and Topics
Wed 01 October 2025, 7:00–9:30 p.m., meeting point: ticket counter
“Fate and Chance”
How characters are at the mercy of the composer/director’s arbitrariness.
Wed 22 October 2025, 7:00–9:30 p.m., meeting point: Kreuzstr. 5
“The Beauty of Dying”
How violence is transformed into aesthetic pleasure.
Tue 28 October 2025, 6:15–10:00 p.m., meeting point: ticket counter
Visit to the stage-orchestra rehearsal “La forza del destino”
Wed 29 October 2025, 7:00–9:30 p.m., meeting point: Kreuzstr. 5
“Masters of the Plot”
How dramaturgical techniques steer the audience.
Wed 05 November 2025, 5:30–10:00 p.m., meeting point: ticket counter
Visit to the main orchestra rehearsal “Macbeth”
Wed 19 November 2025, 7:00–9:30 p.m., meeting point: Kreuzstr. 5
“The Stuff Drama Is Made Of”
The sources from which libretto and plot draw their material.
Wed 03 December 2025, 7:00–9:30 p.m., meeting point: Kreuzstr. 5
“Giants of Their Art”
What Verdi and Hitchcock can still mean to us today.