A diverse and dramatic trio of rarely produced operas headline the upcoming 2016 Wexford Festival Opera which takes place from 26 October – 6 November.
The 2016 bash opens with Herculanum by Félicien David, an epic tale of forbidden love between Pagan royalty and Christian slaves, set against the backdrop and ultimate eruption of Mount Vesuvius. Elsewhere, Samuel Barber’s first opera, Vanessa, tells the story of an ageing woman, not wanting to acknowledge the many years that have passed since her former lover’s departure, waiting with tense anticipation for his return, only to discover that he is not who he appears to be. Wexford's relationship with Italian composer Gaetano Donizetti (1797-1848) dates back to 1952, when his then little-known opera L'elisir d'amore was performed. Since then, 15 further Donizetti productions have been staged in Wexford. Maria de Rudenz will be the 17th full-scale production of a Donizetti opera and centres around a scorned woman’s determination to destroy her former lover and his new intended bride.
Commenting on this year’s programme, Artistic Director David Agler said, ‘Probably my greatest pleasure as Artistic Director is to stand at the door every evening to greet new and familiar faces to the Festival. Wexford is rich in creativity: in music performance and composition, theatrical production, art and literature. All these life-enhancing gifts come together in opera and I’m proud to play a role in making this happen."
Other programme highlights include a 'taster menu' of one-hour ShortWorks (daytime short operas), which includes Riders to the Sea by Ralph Vaughan Williams, based on JM Synge's play, and the ever-popular Lunchtime Recitals. Two other very special events showcasing world-class Irish musicians include a concert with the RTÉ Contempo Quartet and a piano recital by pianist Barry Douglas.
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Wexford Town also hosts a vibrant Fringe Festival to coincide with the Opera Festival, which includes art exhibitions, drama and music performances, historical tours, and a Singing and Swinging Pubs competition.
For more information on how to travel to Wexford, accommodation, and the most up to date casting and programme details or to download the Festival brochure, go to the Wexford Festival Opera website here..
