The Seven Deadly Sins (ballet chanté)

Lenya Weill 7DS

The Seven Deadly Sins (Die sieben Todsünden) is a ballet chanté in seven scenes (nine movements) composed by Kurt Weill to a German libretto by Bertolt Brecht in 1933. This work is an example of Weill and Brecht's collaboration and a blend of various musical and theatrical styles, including opera, ballet, and cabaret. It was first performed on 7 June 1933 at the Théâtre des Champs-Élysées in Paris. The Seven Deadly Sins is often considered a satirical critique of capitalist society and explores themes of morality, identity, and the economic forces that drive individuals to act against their own interests and ethical beliefs.

Plot

The ballet's narrative follows two sisters, Anna I and Anna II, who represent different facets of the same personality. Anna I is the practical, cynical older sister, and Anna II is the emotional, impulsive younger sister. They embark on a journey across seven American cities to earn money to build a house for their family. In each city, they encounter one of the seven deadly sins: Sloth, Pride, Wrath, Gluttony, Lust, Greed, and Envy. The work critiques the vices not as moral failings of individuals but as systemic issues perpetuated by society.

Music and Structure

The music by Kurt Weill incorporates a wide range of styles, from jazz to classical, reflecting the diverse settings and moods of the narrative. The structure of the piece, with its episodic nature and combination of sung and danced elements, was innovative for its time. The orchestration is notable for its economy and the way it complements the thematic content of the libretto.

Production History

Since its premiere in 1933, The Seven Deadly Sins has been staged by numerous opera and ballet companies around the world. Its initial reception was mixed, partly due to the political climate of the time and the avant-garde nature of the work. However, it has since been recognized as a significant piece in the repertoire of 20th-century music theatre.

Themes and Analysis

The work is a complex examination of the conflict between personal desires and societal expectations. The dual nature of the protagonist(s) serves as a metaphor for the internal and external conflicts faced by individuals in a capitalist society. The Seven Deadly Sins challenges the audience to consider the moral compromises made in the pursuit of success and the alienation that can result from striving to conform to societal norms.

Legacy

The Seven Deadly Sins has had a lasting impact on the fields of opera and ballet, influencing subsequent generations of composers and choreographers. It remains a powerful commentary on the human condition and the societal pressures that shape our actions and identities.