Dido and Aeneas in concert
Performance information
Voorstellingsinformatie
The story
The love between Queen Dido and the Trojan prince Aeneas comes under pressure when divine forces and dark intrigues cross their path. What begins as a promising union ultimately leads to an inevitable farewell.
Opera in concert
In partnership with Opera Zuid and Nederlandse Reisopera, Dutch National Opera is presenting Dido and Aeneas as an opera in concert. The dramatic developments will be reinforced by a mise en espace (the placement of the singers in the space) and the costume and lighting design. After two performances at the home of Dutch National Opera & Ballet, the production will travel to Arnhem, Enschede and Heerlen.
Opera in concert
In partnership with Opera Zuid and Nederlandse Reisopera, Dutch National Opera is presenting Dido and Aeneas as an opera in concert. The dramatic developments will be reinforced by a mise en espace (the placement of the singers in the space) and the costume and lighting design. After two performances at the home of Dutch National Opera & Ballet, the production will travel to Arnhem, Enschede and Heerlen.
This production is focused on talent development. Under Rosemary Joshua as the artistic director, the cast was recruited from members and alumni of Dutch National Opera Studio together with other promising and talented young singers. In addition, Joshua and Edward Ananian-Cooper (master of the Chorus of Dutch National Opera) have put together DNO Young Baroque Voices, an ensemble consisting of singing students from various Dutch conservatoires.
The Netherlands Chamber Orchestra, with the enthusiastic French conductor, harpsichordist and baroque specialist Camille Delaforge at the helm and with the continuo of her own Ensemble Il Caravaggio, will be bringing Purcell’s colourful score to life together with the young singers. There will also be dance music by Purcell in the interludes. The evening will open with a song by Purcell, ‘When Orpheus sang’, about the mythical singer Orpheus who was able to enchant nature and even the powerful gods through the power of his music.
Dutch National Opera
Dutch National Opera is known for its diverse programming of both classical and modern operas and the consistently high standard of its performances. It is keeping this art form fighting fit for the future with innovative productions, new compositions commissioned by Dutch National Opera and fresh takes on familiar works in the repertoire. It frequently has co-productions with leading international opera companies. Since September 2018, Sophie de Lint has been the director of Dutch National Opera.
Dutch National Opera Studio
Dutch National Opera Studio runs a two-year programme that prepares young singers and repetiteurs for international operatic careers. The Opera Studio combines workshops and coaching with a diverse range of opportunities for professional experience, including productions on Dutch National Opera’s main stage. The Opera Studio started in 2018. The internationally acclaimed soprano Rosemary Joshua is the artistic leader.
Opera Zuid
A bold opera company with a vision.
Opera Zuid is more than just an opera company; it is a source of innovation, a bridge between tradition and innovation and a motor driving social engagement. Opera Zuid not only stages awe-inspiring operas but also brings people, ideas and generations together.
Nederlandse Reisopera
Nederlandse Reisopera believes in the power of opera, as an art form that is constantly renewing itself, to bring people together. Nederlandse Reisopera is the largest travelling opera company in the Netherlands and has been bringing high-quality opera productions to the people for seventy years. In its anniversary season 2025/2026, it will be presenting two world premieres, Second Love and To Die For [A Comedy]. It will also put on The Cunning Little Vixen in a new Dutch translation by Jibbe Willems.
