Scottish Opera

Ashley Page, former Artistic Director of Scottish Ballet, directs Gluck’s dramatic Orfeo. With an internationally acclaimed creative team including Mark Jonathan and Johan Engels, renowned for his vivid, theatrical designs, this production promises a visual spectacular that draws inspiration from an eclectic range of sources including Dior’s ‘New Look’ and the exotic colours of tribal Africa.

In a world where gods see fit to meddle in the lives of men, Orfeo, distraught by the death of his lover, resolves to defy their will and rescue her from Hades. But the gods have their rules; Euridice may be allowed to escape, but only if Orfeo can stop himself from looking at her until they are once again safe above ground. It seems a simple task, but will Euridice understand his sudden coldness?

Focusing on dramatic effect over the vocal display so favoured by his contemporaries, Gluck’s music gives a unique glimpse forward into the Romantic era. At one moment full of fury, the next clear and pure, his music is full of emotion.