Yesterday I saw Elektra by Richard Strauss as directed by Patrice Chéreau and conducted by Esa-Pekka Salonen with its star-studded cast, as the Opera website writes. I liked the sets by Richard Peduzzi, reminiscent of 1920s classicism, very much. The singers were obviously excellent, as was the whole performance. However, Esa-Pekka Salonen may have forgotten what a small house the National Opera actually is. One does not go to the opera to experience physical pain, and I'm sure even Strauss wouldn't have minded a little less volume. My ears are still sore.