Opera UCT reimagines Die Fledermaus with contemporary flair

In an exciting reimagining of a classic, Opera UCT is set to transform Johann Strauss's beloved operetta, Die Fledermaus, into a vibrant celebration of contemporary Cape Town. Thanks to the visionary styling of award-winning fashion designer Gavin Rajah, this production promises to captivate audiences with its blend of mistaken identities, romantic entanglements, and midnight revelries, all enveloped in the freshest urban flair.

A modern take on a classic

Scheduled for performances from 23 to 26 October 2025 at the famed Baxter Theatre, this production breathes new life into the setting of Strauss’s Vienna, infusing it with the dynamic energy of a Cape Town spring and summer. Gone are the days of ostentatious powdered wigs and rigid formal attire. Rajah’s design vision reflects a modern sophistication, drawing inspiration from the city’s picturesque Atlantic Seaboard. Expect clean lines, playful cut-outs, and airy layers that encourage artistic freedom for the performers.

The creative synergy between Rajah’s contemporary fashion sense and the bold, modern sets by Allegra Bernacchioni elevates the entire operatic experience to exhilarating heights.

A feast for the senses

With each outfit meticulously crafted to convey both aesthetic beauty and ease of movement, Rajah expertly balances restrained sexiness with an air of sophistication. The vibrant colour palette—featuring Atlantic blues, sundown corals, fynbos greens, and sparkling metallic sands against deep blacks for evening scenes—encapsulates the spirit of the 'Mother City,' creating a visual feast designed to mesmerise audiences of all ages.

Sustainability remains a focal point of Rajah's vision, with eco-friendly materials playing a crucial role in the attire. By incorporating recycled satins, mesh, organza, and technical cottons into his designs, he nods to street culture while maintaining a commitment to conscious couture. “Opera thrives when it speaks the language of its time,” Rajah states, encapsulating his innovative approach: “We’ve upcycled couture, slashed seams, and built costumes that move as easily at an after-party as they do on stage.”

Characters with a twist

As for the principal characters, expect to see Rosalinde in a luxurious blend of satin and tulle, paired with edgy opera gloves. Eisenstein’s tuxedo stands out with its cropped, raw-edged fit, cinched with a ripstop cummerbund. Adele becomes a vision of sequined glamour, transitioning from maid to muse, while Dr. Falke (the Bat) takes flight in a cape with a stylish new twist. The portrayal of Prince Orlofsky is set to redefine ungendered elegance, ultimately delivering a narrative that feels both intimate and voguish.

An interactive experience

The stagecraft is designed to create a romantic and interactive atmosphere, blending the excitement of a masquerade with thematic beats that resonate through the audience. As much a fashion show and a nightlife soirée as it is an operatic performance, Die Fledermaus invites attendees to dress up and immerse themselves in the experience, promising an unforgettable night out that combines theatrical magic with social connection.

Inclusive and accessible

Priced between R100 and R500, with under-18s attending for free (booking required), this is not only an opera but an inclusive spectacle, welcoming both first-time attendees and lifelong enthusiasts. Whether you are drawn to street fashion, the thrill of nightlife, or simply curious about the world of opera, this production is a must-see for anyone eager to witness the art of reinvention in action.

Catch Opera UCT’s enchanting rendition of Die Fledermaus from 23 to 26 October at the Baxter Theatre. Supported by Pick 'n Pay Clothing’s Futurewear Programme, with makeup and hair direction by Raine Tauber from Nars Cosmetics, this operetta provides the perfect opportunity to embrace creativity and camaraderie through the language of music.