Opera Project, Tobacco Factory Productions

Verdi’s greatest opera Falstaff explodes onto our stage this autumn in a co-production between Opera Project and Tobacco Factory Theatres.

When the mischievous, lecherous Falstaff sets out to seduce the beautiful Mrs Ford and Mrs Page to get at their husbands’ money, he feels sure to succeed. But will the women let him get away with it? And what will happen when their husbands find out his plans? Much trickery, hilarity and humiliation ensues in Verdi’s Falstaff; not only one of the greatest comic masterpieces, but also one of the supreme challenges in all opera with its hair-raising ensembles and breakneck pace.

Under the shadow of Herne’s mighty oak will be a stunning cast headed by the inimitable Simon Thorpe (Tosca) will perform this wonderful opera.

Boito’s masterly libretto, which takes inspiration from Shakespeare’s Merry Wives of Windsor and Henry IV, is universally regarded as the finest of all Shakespeare-based operas. Following last season’s sell-out Madam Butterfly, Verdi’s final farewell work, and his only comedy, is bristling with energy and awash with fabulous melodies.