Details

Set in a timeless world full of passion, plots and potent illusion - where reality blurs with fantasy - the enigmatic Alcina reigns. Intrigue surrounds this alluring but ruthless sorceress, who spends her time seducing lovers, then, once bored, swiftly discarding them. However, when the handsome Ruggiero is bewitched by Alcina's charms, his fiancée Bradamante enlists the help of her friend Melisso and - disguised as a man - sets out to rescue her beloved. Deceit, sensuality and seduction pervade Handel's glorious music, with exquisite arias lamenting love unrequited and faith betrayed. David McVicar places the action within the framework of a Palladian theatre and uses exuberant choreography, magical effects and lavish costumes to conjure a visual feast. This masque-like production does full justice to some of Handel's most glorious arias, and was a huge succes when first seen at the Coliseum in 1999. Original production supported by Friends of ENO. Running time 3 hrs 40 mins

Cast/Performers

Lisa Milne (Alcina), Sarah Connolly (Ruggiero), Laura Claycomb (Morgana), Charlotte Hellekant (Bradamante), Fredrik Strid (Oronte), Mark Richardson (Melisso), Gail Pearson (Oberto)

Creatives/Company

Music: Handel
Company: English National Opera
Conductor(s): Richard Hickox, Anthony Legge
Director: David McVicar
Design: Michael Vale
Costume: Sue Blane
Lighting: Paule Constable
Choreographer: Michael Keegan-Dolan
Translation: Amanda Holden