THE IMPACT OF 'NON-OPERA' DIRECTORS UPON THE SLOVAK OPERA AT THE TURN OF THE CENTURIES

Internationally, the differences between directors specializing in opera and directors active in other genres (drama, film, dance, and puppet theatre) have been removed. The author ponders over the existence of similar blending in Slovakia and to what extent would this enrich the national operatic life. He makes a statement that in the time period under survey the most distinct personality was that of the director Jozef Bednarik; however, his peculiar poetics has worn away and lost its innovative spirit. New elements, combining the opera with pantomime and puppet-play, have been introduced by Milan Sladek. Distinguished directors Roman Polak and Martin Huba are at a stage of experimenting with the use of drama means of expression in opera.