Reigen is a tale of sexual encounters across all social levels. Based on the acerbic 1900 play with which Arthur Schnitzler scandalised turn-of-the-century Vienna, Belgian composer Philippe Boesmans' 1993 chamber opera is a 20th century classic of seduction, passion and betrayal. Ten characters come together inten different constellations, from prostitute to the Count and back, set to Boesmans' bitingly ironic and witty music.

The Cape Festival's production with Klangforum Wien will play in a South African context. Translators will adapt the scenes to the relevant languages (Xhosa, Afrikaans and English) as they relate to social groups in the Cape region. The direction team will collaborate with local AIDS organisations in the development of their concept. Klangforum Wien will run workshops in contemporary music performance for local musicians.