Two `Rings,' Two Answers // Chicago and Berlin Productions Of Opera Yield Differing Results

BERLIN "Ring" mania in Chicago ended two weeks ago when the finalcurtain came down on Lyric Opera of Chicago's production of "The Ringof the Nibelung." When it comes to Wagner's "Ring," the mania is ofcourse an international disease. So less than 24 hours after fadingout in Chicago, it's not surprising that "Ring" fever broke out inBerlin.

Comparing Lyric's production with Berlin's just-completed "Ring"reveals fascinating similarities and differences.

But first of all, the Berlin "Ring" shared certain ties toChicago. Daniel Barenboim, music director of the Chicago SymphonyOrchestra, made "The Ring" the centerpiece of his new Easterfestival, Festtage 1996. He led …