What is the Royal Opera House's new production of Handel's Ariodante about?

The Royal Opera House's new production of Handel's "Ariodante" reimagines the opera as a modern family psychodrama, focusing on dysfunctional royal dynamics.

Who directed the Royal Opera House's Ariodante?

The Royal Opera House's production of Handel's "Ariodante" is directed by Jetske Mijnssen, marking her Covent Garden debut.

Is Handel's Ariodante at the Royal Opera House a traditional performance?

No, the Royal Opera House's "Ariodante" is a modern interpretation by director Jetske Mijnssen, presented as a family psychodrama rather than a traditional telling.

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Royal Opera House: Psychodrama Meets Opera

10 Dec

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Summary

Handel's Ariodante reimagined as modern family psychodrama.
Director Mijnssen explores dysfunctional royal family dynamics.
Singers' projection of text is often minimal, akin to instrumental music.

Royal Opera House: Psychodrama Meets Opera

Handel's "Ariodante," composed in 1735, is being staged at the Royal Opera House in a new production by director Jetske Mijnssen. This version reframes the opera as a contemporary family psychodrama, exploring the intricacies of a dysfunctional royal household.

Mijnssen, known for her bold interpretations, presents a modern palace setting where the king's children navigate complex relationships. While the opera traditionally concludes happily, this production highlights the dramatic tensions, sometimes pushing the boundaries between music and narrative.

The cast delivers intense performances, but the clarity of sung text is a notable issue, with some sections feeling almost instrumental. The orchestra, under Stefano Montanari, offers a dynamic interpretation that occasionally overshadows the singers.