Orfeo at The Roundhouse London

Research output: Non-textual formPerformance

Abstract

The Roundhouse and the Royal Opera join forces as Michael Boyd directs a much-anticipated new production of Monteverdi’s masterpiece L’Orfeo, the first great opera.

Orfeo will be Michael Boyd’s operatic debut and follows one of the most memorable productions ever at the Roundhouse – Shakespeare’s Histories cycle, presented here to widespread critical acclaim when he was artistic director of the Royal Shakespeare Company.

The atmospheric Roundhouse Main Space and designs by the award-winning theatre designer Tom Piper will contribute to a theatrical spectacle that promises to make this masterpiece a revelation for a whole new audience today.

Monteverdi’s musical genius formed a bold and inspired synthesis of emotional drama, existing musical styles and innovative ideas. British composer Christopher Moulds will conduct all performances. Christopher Moulds also conducts Monteverdi’s Orfeo for the Bavarian State Opera in July 2015 and has previously conducted the work for Opera North.

A new translation by Don Paterson and performed by a superb cast, Orfeo is sure to give an exciting new perspective on the greatest of all early operas.

4
This collaboration between the Roundhouse and the Royal Opera House is full of simple and superbly effective touches, with a strong cast of soloists and vivid playing from the Early Opera Company
Andrew Clements, The Guardian
4
‘Orendt sings most eloquently, threading beautiful melisma through Possente spirto and entering whole-heartedly into the drama. Mary Bevan (Prologue/Euridice), Susan Bickley (the Messenger) and Anthony Gregory and Alexander Sprague (the Shepherds) are also outstanding in an altogether first-class cast, and the orchestra of the Early Opera Company plays with gusto under Christopher Moulds.’
Rupert Christiansen, Telegraph
4
It all not only looks austerely beautiful… it sounds amazing too. Our proximity made one wonder afresh at the glory of the operatic voice
David Nice, Arts Desk
4
Conductor Christopher Moulds provides excellent leadership to the beautiful Orchestra of Early Opera Company, while there are a plethora of superb performances.
Sam Smith, Londonist
Original languageEnglish
Publication statusPublished - Jan 2015

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