"Sisters Exposed..." Audience Vomits During German Opera Performance

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An opera performed in Germany has become embroiled in controversy over its explicit content. Due to the high level of graphic expression, some audience members vomited and were taken to the hospital during the performance.

On the 10th (local time), British daily newspapers The Guardian and The Mirror reported that 18 audience members watching the opera "Sancta Susanna" at the Stuttgart State Opera House in Germany experienced shock symptoms and other issues.

"Sancta Susanna" was composed in 1921 by Paul Hindemith, a master of early modern German music. The story revolves around a nun living in a strict convent who discovers her sexual identity. The opera caused controversy and was canceled during its premiere at the Frankfurt Opera House in Germany at the time.

Revived on stage after 103 years, "Sancta Susanna" was modernly reinterpreted by Florentina Holzinger, an Austrian choreographer and director, adding more shock value. Scenes included female performers exposing themselves and a vocalist dressed as Jesus singing songs by American rapper Eminem.

Opera 'The Sacred Susanna' performance scene [Image source=Screenshot from Stuttgart State Opera YouTube channel]

Despite warnings before the performance stating, "This work is very explicit and only suitable for viewers aged 18 and over," some audience members experienced nausea and fainting during the show and required medical assistance.

An opera official said, "Eight people were treated on Saturday and ten on Sunday," adding, "There were several occasions when doctors came to the venue to provide treatment."

When "Sancta Susanna" was performed in Vienna, Austria last year, it also faced strong protests from Austrian church officials accusing it of blasphemy. Archbishop Franz Lackner of Salzburg criticized it, saying, "It seriously damages the religious feelings and beliefs of the faithful, crossing the limits of free artistic expression."

On the other hand, one critic praised it, saying, "It was a very creative interpretation of the original work and showed amazing directorial skills."

The Stuttgart State Opera House's YouTube video, which previously had a highest view count of around 38,000, has surpassed 550,000 views.

"Sancta Susanna" will be performed at the Stuttgart Staatsoper in Germany until November 3 and is scheduled for a performance in Berlin afterward. The performances are reported to be sold out.