Details
The Beggar's Opera was originally produced on 29 January 1728 by the Theatre Manager John Rich at Lincoln's Inn Fields Theatre and was the first musical show to mix dialogue with songs. A story of thieves and highwaymen, it was intended to mirror the moral degradation of society and, more particularly, to caricature the then Prime Minister Sir Robert Walpole. It ran for 62 performances, the longest run then known, and the success of the production enabled John Rich to build a new theatre in Covent Garden, the forerunner of the Royal Opera House.
The Beggar's Opera was first heard of Covent Garden in 1732. John Gay’s 17th century play, The Beggar’s Opera has been reconfigured to the not-so-distant future. A dark, seedy, absurd, visually rich and cruelly comic co- production from Vanishing Point, Royal Lyceum and Belgrade Theatre, Coventry.
Cast/Performers
Sandy Grierson,
James Bryce,
Pauline Goldsmith,
Damir Todorovic,
Elspeth Brodie,
Victoria Bavister,
Rosalind SydneyCreatives/Company
Author:
John GayCompany:
Vanishing PointDirector:
Matthew LentonDesign(s):
Kai Fischer,
Finn Ross (projection - for mesmer)
Lighting:
Kai FischerMusic(s):
Alasdair Macrae,
QuinnSound:
Mark MelvilleCostume:
Eve LambertOther:
Sandy Grierson (creative associate)
