In this article, Opernwelt highlights the success of the Theatre and Orchestra Biel-Solothurn (TOBS) under the direction of Dieter Kaegi. Despite its modest size and limited resources compared to major European opera houses, the institution manages to offer an ambitious and original program. The author emphasizes the artistic quality of the productions, the commitment of the performers, and the theatre’s ability to balance works from the great repertoire with contemporary creations and rarely performed pieces.
TOBS also stands out for its strong regional roots, its openness to linguistic diversity, and its determination to attract a broad audience. With around 300 performances per year and a high attendance rate, the institution demonstrates that a medium-sized theatre can play a significant cultural role. The productions mentioned — including works by Peter Eötvös and Salvatore Sciarrino — illustrate this ongoing pursuit of artistic innovation.
The article thus presents TOBS as a model of dynamism and creativity within the Swiss cultural landscape.
Source: Peter Hagmann, “Groß im Kleinen”, Opernwelt, February 2019.
Mehr als eine Sammlung leisester Geräusche und hingehauchter Satzfragmente gibt es nicht. Wie die junge Sopranistin Céline Steudler, eine Bühnenbegabung erster Güte, die getriebene Elsa Fleisch und Blut werden lässt, kann einem fürwahr nahe gehen.
Opernwelt, Peter Hamann, février 2019