Details

The Two Widows is brimming with musical wit in some of the most charming, life-affirming music Smetana ever wrote. He reveals a deep understanding of human foibles in this gentle and fun tale of Czech country life in the late 19th century. Two young widows, living a quiet country life, have sharply contrasting attitudes to life: Karolina lives for the future, enjoys life and love and runs her estate with great independence; Anezka is in denial of her true feelings, wishes to remain faithful to her husband and buries herself in the past. When a handsome stranger appears, Karolina guesses his reasons and instigates a mischievous game of love and jealousy. The opera is based on a French farce by Jean Pierre Félicien Mallefille which Smetana transposed to the world of the Czech landed gentry. He set out to write an opera in 'the distinguished salon style' to show that the Czech repertoire could contain more than folksy or high-toned patriotic pieces. This is a delicate comedy, gentle, warm-hearted and melodic. Performed in English. For the first time performed in its original dialogue version, Smetana's charming comedy is an ideal introduction to the world of opera.

Cast/Performers

Kate Flowers (Karolina), Beverley Mills (Anezka), Adrian Martin (Ladislav), Michael Druiett

Creatives/Company

Music(s): Smetana, Christopher Willis (Arrangement for Piano Quintet)
Director(s): Graham Vick, Christopher Willis (music)
Company: City of Birmingham Touring Opera
Design: Jon Morrell
Choreographer: Ron Howell
Lighting: Simon Mills
Translation(s): Leonard Hancock (Singing), David Pountney (Singing), Graham Vick