The Royal Opera

The Roundhouse and the Royal Opera join forces as Michael Boyd directs a much-anticipated new production of Monteverdi’s masterpiece L’Orfeo, the first great opera.

Orfeo will be Michael Boyd’s operatic debut and follows one of the most memorable productions ever at the Roundhouse – Shakespeare’s Histories cycle, presented here to widespread critical acclaim when he was artistic director of the Royal Shakespeare Company.

The atmospheric Roundhouse Main Space and designs by the award-winning theatre designer Tom Piper will contribute to a theatrical spectacle that promises to make this masterpiece a revelation for a whole new audience today.

Monteverdi’s musical genius formed a bold and inspired synthesis of emotional drama, existing musical styles and innovative ideas. Christian Curnyn, who made his debut with The Royal Opera in L’Ormindo at Shakespeare’s Globe, conducts a score that is as impressive and thrilling as it was when it was first written over 400 years ago.

A new translation by Don Paterson and performed by a superb cast, Orfeo is sure to give an exciting new perspective on the greatest of all early operas. Christopher Moulds will conduct all performances.