BAYREUTH, Germany (AP) — In Wagner's home theater, a twist has been added to the classic opera “Die Meistersinger von Nürnberg.”

Instead of Walther joining the guild of master singers and preparing to marry Eva after he wins the song contest, in Bayeuth's new version she grabs the medal out of the young knight's hands, returns it to her father, then leads her future husband offstage for a future forsaking the traditions of their family and city.

“No thank you. Let's go!” explained soprano Christian Nilsson, who is singing Eva in her role debut. “She is a strong girl.”

Matthias Davids’ production runs through Aug. 22, emphasizing entertainment with a Hollywood Technicolor look highlighted by an upside-down inflatable cow and a tiny St. Catherine’s Church atop 34 steep steps.

Cow image d

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