What does the term Gesamtkunstwerk mean in Richard Wagner’s theory of theatre?

In Richard Wagner’s theory of theatre, the term Gesamtkunstwerk—translated as "total work of art"—refers to an ideal in which all elements of a theatrical production are unified in the service of the drama.12

Wagner believed that a theatrical performance should not be an aggregate of parts contributed by various hands, but rather a cohesive, integrated experience where nothing is left to chance. To achieve this, he sought to synthesize various art forms—including music, acting, stage space, design, and lighting—to establish a singular, immersive mood.2

In his music dramas, Wagner exerted total control over these elements, often writing both the music and the librettos, providing detailed instructions for staging and scenic design, and conducting his own works. By integrating these components, he aimed to create a profound symbolism that functioned across dramatic, verbal, and musical planes, ensuring that every aspect of the performance was directed toward the same artistic end.132