The Seven Deadly Sins (ballet Chanté)

The Seven Deadly Sins (Die sieben Todsünden) is a satirical ballet chanté in seven scenes (a prologue and six episodes) composed by Kurt Weill to a German libretto by Bertolt Brecht in 1933. This work is an example of Weill and Brecht's collaboration, blending elements of opera, ballet, and song cycle to explore the theme of moral corruption against a backdrop of capitalist society. The piece was first performed on 7 June 1933 at the Théâtre des Champs-Élysées in Paris.

Background

The Seven Deadly Sins was the last major collaboration between Weill and Brecht. The duo had previously worked together on several pieces, including the acclaimed The Threepenny Opera. In this ballet, they sought to critique the burgeoning capitalist culture of the time, using the seven deadly sins as a framework to explore the vices that they believed were encouraged by capitalist societies.

Plot

The ballet follows the journey of two sisters, Anna I and Anna II, who represent the two facets of a single personality. Anna I is the practical, cynical side, while Anna II is the emotional, impulsive aspect. They leave their home in Louisiana to seek their fortune in seven cities across America, each city representing a different sin: Sloth, Pride, Wrath, Gluttony, Lust, Greed, and Envy. The sisters' journey is a critique of the moral decay Weill and Brecht perceived in capitalist societies, with each sin serving as a metaphor for the vices encouraged by such a system.

Music and Structure

Weill's score for The Seven Deadly Sins is notable for its blending of classical, jazz, and popular music elements, reflecting the eclectic styles of the Weimar Republic's cabaret culture. The music serves to underscore the satirical and critical tone of Brecht's text, with each sin characterized by a distinct musical motif.

Performances and Legacy

Since its premiere, The Seven Deadly Sins has been performed by various opera and ballet companies around the world. Its critical view of capitalism and moral corruption remains relevant, making it a staple in the repertoire of modern theatre and dance companies. The work is also significant for its innovative combination of musical and theatrical elements, which has influenced subsequent generations of composers and playwrights.

See Also

• Bertolt Brecht
• Kurt Weill
• The Threepenny Opera
• Opera
• Ballet
• Song cycle