Emanuel Schikaneder, a successful actor, singer, and playwright, was a friend and impresario of Mozart. He was in financial difficulties in 1790 and needed to produce a successful opera to save his theater. Mozart agreed to collaborate with him on a new opera, with Schikaneder writing the libretto and Mozart composing the music.
The influence of Freemasonry
Both Mozart and Schikaneder were Freemasons, and the influence of Freemasonry can be seen in the opera. The characters of Sarastro and the Queen of the Night represent the opposing forces of light and darkness, and the opera's message is one of enlightenment and moral growth.
Mozart's musical genius
Mozart was one of the greatest musical geniuses of all time, and The Magic Flute is considered one of his finest operas. The music is beautiful and varied, with a wide range of styles, from grand opera to folk song. The opera is also full of humor and drama, and it has a universal appeal that has made it one of the most popular operas of all time.