Open House Matinee
Orfeo ed Euridice
About the operas
- Part I: Orfeo ed Euridice
- Part II: Dido and Aeneas
~ Part I: Orfeo ed Euridice ~
Premiering in 1762, Orfeo ed Euridice is a simple, direct and intensely moving story in Greek mythology.
The demi-god Orpheus enchants all nature with his music and poetry. His wedding with Euridice is tragically interrupted when a snake bites and kills her.
This opera takes us on a journey into the underworld: Orpheus pursues Euridice with the intention of rescuing her and bringing her back to the world of the living. His success hangs on Cupid’s warning that a single direct look into Euridice’s eyes will end her life eternally…
~ Part II: Dido and Aeneas ~
Famously written by Purcell for a girls’ school in Chelsea, Dido and Aeneas is the first ever English opera.
Dido, the clever and enterprising founder of the prosperous city state of Carthage, is one of the most revered women of the ancient world.
On his return from battle, Trojan warrior Aeneas calls on Dido – they fall for one another. But, when Aeneas departs abruptly after a passionate love affair, Dido is driven to despair and suicide.
The opera ends with Dido’s Lament, a result of Dido’s anguish, and one of the most arresting arias of all time.
Previous workshops
I felt like I was part of the opera … an onlooker within the set. I felt sucked into the story and couldn’t take my eyes off it
When I saw the opera it felt like I could be anyone or anything I wanted to be in the future
Production page
Orfeo ed Euridice/Dido and Aeneas
Double Bill
Support our Education Fund
Inspiring the next generation of music lovers and mentoring young artists is an important part of our mission to share our expertise. Our Education Fund supports a range of imaginative year-round activities.