One often misunderstood aspect of Freemasonry is that historically it has been an initiatory order. To this day, Freemasons must go through certain rites of initiation before they are considered full members of the order. It is this voyage of self discovery that leads to the ultimate goal… enlightenment.

Although brand new versions of The Magic Flute are premiering in opera houses all over the world, the famous production actually premiered in Vienna 220 years ago. To mark this year’s special anniversary, here are some interesting facts about what some consider Mozart’s most popular work.

On this day, 219 years ago, Mozart’s beloved opera, The Magic Flute, premiered in Vienna.  Mozart conducted the orchestra himself at the Freihaus-Theater auf der Wieden.  The opera, which is set to a German libretto written by the actor and manager of the Friehaus Theater, Emanuel Schickaneder, is believed to be his finest work. 

Passionate about both art and music, Kevin Sullivan decided to tackle both by delving into the world of Mozart’s masterpiece, The Magic Flute.  He wanted to showcase the extravagance of Mozart’s era, but also give his film the energy of a modern pop video.  And there were many steps involved in doing so.  Here’s a look at his inspiration for the film in its initial stages.

Certain rivalries between Mozart and his contemporaries performing in Europe was an ever present fixture in the life of the famous composer.

Historically, the idea of a patronage system involved a wealthy or connected adviser sponsoring the works of another artist.  Famous examples include the Medici family of Florence or the Roman Catholic and Protestant Churches that commissioned great works of art for cathedrals.  However, the patronage system under which Mozart worked for a time was a system of employment that was both necessary for the maintenance of his career, but as the musician himself saw it, an evil.