Lyric Opera 2021-2022 Issue 3 The Magic Flute

Lyric Opera of Chicago | 22 Act two The trial of silence Tamino and Papageno must practice being silent. When the three ladies appear and attempt to persuade them to abandon their quest, the trial becomes truly difficult. Tamino remains silent and resolute, while Papageno immediately begins to chatter. Meanwhile, Monostatos again tries to get close to the sleeping Pamina. The Queen of the Night appears and orders her daughter to kill Sarastro. Pamina remains behind, despairing, and Sarastro seeks to console her by forswearing any thoughts of revenge. The trial of temptation Tamino and Papageno must resist all temptation: no conversation, no women, no food! As well as the magic flute and bells, the three guides also bring Tamino and Papageno sustenance, which Tamino steadfastly resists. Even the arrival of Pamina fails to draw a single word from Tamino’s lips, which she interprets as a rejection. She laments the cooling of Tamino’s love for her. Before the last trial, Pamina and Tamino are brought together one last time to say farewell to one another. Papageno is not permitted to take part in any further trials. He now wishes only for a glass of wine—and he dreams of his great love. Pamina believes that she has lost Tamino forever. In her despair, she seeks to end her own life, but is prevented from doing so by the three guides, who assure her that Tamino still loves her. Gladdened and relieved, Pamina accepts their invitation to see Tamino again. Reunited at last, Tamino and Pamina undergo the final trial together. Pamina suggests that Tamino play the magic flute to provide them with protection. The trial of fire and water The music of the magic flute and their love for one another allow Tamino and Pamina to conquer their own fear and overcome the dangers of fire and water. Papageno is still unsuccessful in his search for the perfect mate. Despairing, he now also seeks to end his life, but is prevented from doing so by the three guides. Papageno’s dream finally comes true: together with the beautiful Papagena, the two dream of being blessed with many children. Meanwhile… …the Queen of the Night, the three ladies, and the turncoat Monostatos arm themselves for an attack against Sarastro and his retinue. However, their attack is repelled. Tamino and Pamina have reached the end of their trials, and can finally be together. Synopsis Continued