Samenvatting

Male bodies in opera were given a new, daring dimension with the composition of the role of Oberon for countertenor in Benjamin Britten’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream. While male altos had existed in different forms for centuries, this opera marks the first time a countertenor was specifically acknowledged in the opera world. I explore the work as both a case study and role study, I am learning the role as a singer while simultaneously researching the role as a musicologist. The role was trailblazing, both contemporary composers following 1960 and musicians leading the Early Music Movement felt the waves of Oberon in the following years. For me, this role has taken up residence in my heart and I invite you to join me as I discover as many musical, dramatic, and interpretive dimensions possible.