The newly established historical performance ensemble Figure will bring Handel’s Serse to Opera Holland Park on 30 June.
The opera tells the story of King Herse who, after falling in love with the voice of his brother’s beloved, tries to use his authority to force her to marry him. What follows is a slew of humorous incidents, from misdirected letters, and a misunderstanding which leads to an accidental marriage. Yet, at its heart, the opera explores the fundamental human themes of love, power, reconciliation and redemption.
Renowned mezzo soprano Cecelia Hall will be singing the titular role and British soprano Sarah Tynan will play the role of Romilda.
Handel’s score, which includes one of his most famous arias ‘Ombra mai fu’, will be brought to life by a physical theatre ensemble directed by movement specialist Sam Rayner.
Figure aims to introduce a younger generation of musicians to the historical scene, valuing both intimacy in performance and the human connection which gives music meaning. Last year, they had successful performances with Bach’s St John Passion and Mozart’s Serenade No. 10 for Winds Gran Partita.
Founder and musical director Frederick Waxman expressed his enthusiasm for the performance: “Opera Holland Park has a reputation for supporting young talent and we are thrilled to be performing with them. Serse is one of Handel’s greatest works and where better to present it than here, surrounded by Holland Park’s plane trees, the subject of his beautiful and opera-defining aria ‘Ombra mai fu’.”
Tickets for the performance can be purchased through Opera Holland Park’s website.
Words by Katie Heyes
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