A more traditional Tristram and Odone.
Out went all the traditional features of this tale of doomed love. Tristram, no longer a heroic figure, was cast as a rather weak character who was terrified of nuns (it is claimed that a nun once called him "gay" when he was five years old).
Eeek! I've just seen a nun!
Odone, the love interest, was played as an Italian princess who had been educated by nuns. She was known throughout the kingdom as a champion of orthodox Catholicism (or at least the bits she agreed with).
The Princess Odone.
Comic relief was provided by Galberich, a Jew-hating dwarf. This is a character borrowed from Wagner's Ring Cycle, and not generally regarded as part of the Tristram legend at all.
Bring on the clowns!
However, the story has been changed out of all recognition. Tristram does indeed die - or at least lose his political career - but little else is recognisable.
Tristram dies of shock when he sees a ship bearing the black "nun" flag.
Damian Thompson writes...
As a Wagner expert, I felt very disappointed by this production. Still, if it's available as an illegal download, I might just consider getting it!
Damian Thompson, Publisher of Spectator Religion, Society and Human Flourishing.
Sister Judy Piranha writes...
Coo-eee, Tristram!!?? (That's enough Sr Judy Piranha...)
