Details

During the reign of Louis XIII France is actually under the stern control of Cardinal Richelieu. Maria, previously in love with the Count of Chalais, has married the Duke of Chevreuse, who has been imprisoned for taking part in a duel. When Richelieu is suddenly deposed, her husband, released from prison at Chalais's request, makes their union public - Chalais is devastated. Following Richelieu's unexpected return to power, a tense emotional triangle of passionate love and conflicting loyalties develops. The plot inexorably tightens its grip on the characters as time runs out, and the inevitable bloody denouement is delivered with austere brutality. Concert Performance

Cast/Performers

Krassimira Stoyanova (Maria Countess of Rohan), Christopher Purves (Enrico Duke of Chevreuse, Brindley Sherratt (De Fieque)

Creatives/Company

Author: Donizetti
Lyrics: Salvatore Cammarano
Conductor: Mark Elder (Sir)