In 1781, Mozart’s favorite opera, “Idomeneo,” premiered at the Munich Residenztheater; 245 years later, his music will be performed by candlelight at the Auferstehungskirche

On January 29, 1781, Mozart’s opera Idomeneo premiered at the Munich Residenztheater, now known as the Cuvilliés Theater. Elector Karl Theodor had commissioned Mozart and the librettist Varesco in 1780 to write a work for the court carnival. The theater, which opened in 1753 near the Residenz, was initially reserved for the court.

Mozart had a particularly accomplished ensemble at his disposal for the performance: musicians from the Mannheim Orchestra, which was based in Munich at the time, played in the orchestra pit. Mozart himself considered *Idomeneo* his favorite stage work. The hall where the premiere took place was destroyed during the war; today’s Cuvilliés Theater is a reconstruction.

245 years later, Mozart’s music will be performed by candlelight: Mozart vs. Beethoven in Munich: On December 27, 2026, a pianist will perform works by both composers by candlelight at the Auferstehungskirche.

In the winter of 1780–81, Mozart lived in the heart of the city. A commemorative plaque on Altenhofstraße marks the site of the house, which was destroyed in 1944. His widow later told a biographer that Munich had been the happiest time of his life.

Beethoven also stopped in Munich during one of his travels. On his way back from Vienna, he stayed at the Zum schwarzen Adler inn.

The program includes, among other works, Mozart’s Rondo alla turca, the Fantasy in D minor, and excerpts from *Don Giovanni* and *The Magic Flute*. Also featured are Beethoven’s *Moonlight Sonata* and *Ode to Joy*. *Idomeneo* itself is not part of the set list.

The Auferstehungskirche on Schwanthalerhöhe, inaugurated in 1931, was designed by German Bestelmeyer. Its functional style contrasts with the Rococo style of the Cuvilliés Theater.