Purcell's Dido & Aeneas: a funeral for the Queen of Carthage

The Academy of Ancient Music’s three-year Purcell opera cycle, in co-production with the Barbican, reaches its finale with a semi-staged performance of the greatest English opera of its time.

“When I am laid in earth, may my wrongs create no trouble in thy breast…”

Over 300 years since its premiere Purcell’s opera still speaks poignantly of love and loss, retelling Virgil’s tragic tale of Dido, Queen of Carthage and Aeneas – a Trojan prince – in music that moves from the raw emotional power of Dido’s celebrated lament, to catchy sailors’ songs and graceful dances.

Directed by Thomas Guthrie, the performance stars celebrated soprano Christine Rice, bringing her emotive delivery to Purcell’s most courageous contemporary heroine. She’s joined by young soprano Rowan Pierce as her faithful handmaiden Belinda and Asley Riches as Aeneas.

Following on from the success of The Fairy Queen and King Arthur, AAM’s annual series of staged Purcell performances also offers the chance to hear specially curated selection of other works by Purcell, portraying Dido’s funeral.

Please note:
Priority booking is available for AAM Society members.  For more information about supporting the Academy of Ancient Music, please contact Leonore Hibou leonore.hibou@aam.co.uk, or call 01223 341092.