Cosima's Diaries

Diary Entry of August 13, 1876

Overview

The first performance of Rheingold began under a cloud of mishaps, from Betz misplacing the ring to stage errors that exposed the theater machinery at the worst possible moments. Despite the embarrassment and the chaotic opening, the mood recovered when the Emperor of Brazil paid an unexpected visit. By nightfall they were back in good spirits.

Content

Sunday, August 13:

First performance of Rheingold, under a completely unlucky star: Betz loses the ring, runs into the wings twice during the curse, a stagehand raises the backdrop too soon during the first scene change, and one sees people standing around in shirt sleeves and the back wall of the theater, all the singers embarrassed, etc., etc. R. finally regains his spirits, and the sudden visit of the Emperor of Brazil restores the mood of ebullience. We go to bed in very good spirits.