Orfeo ed Euridice

Ashley Page, former Artistic Director of Scottish Ballet, brings one of
Gluck’s most popular works to life. Based on the myth of Orpheus, this vivid,
theatrical production promises a visual spectacular as it takes us on a quest
through a series of worlds ranging from the sinister to the pastoral. Read more …

In a world where gods see fit to meddle in the lives of men, Orfeo, distraught by the death of his lover, resolves to defy their will and rescue her from Hades. But the gods have their rules; Euridice may be allowed to escape, but only if Orfeo can stop himself from looking at her until they are once again safe above ground. It seems a simple task, but will Euridice understand his sudden coldness?

Focusing on simple, dramatic effect, Gluck’s beautiful music gives a unique glimpse of an approach that changed the nature of opera when it was first seen 250 years ago. At one moment full of fury, the next clear and pure, his music is full of emotion. Australian mezzo-soprano Caitlin Hulcup (Così fan tutte 2009) is Orfeo, Lucy Hall is Euridice and Ana Quintans is Amor.The cast is joined by a chorus of 20 and an ensemble of dancers to bring Gluck’s exceptional choreographic writing to life.

The critical consensus

Like everything else in this production, sound thinking applied with good taste equals a memorable night at the opera.

(*) Ken Walton, The Scotsman, 21/02/2015

Exquisitely constructed telling of Gluck’s tale of the power of music ironically excels in other areas.

(*) (*) Thom Dibdin, The Stage, 23/02/2015

This was a thoroughly competent and enjoyable experience to be recommended.

(*) Barnaby Miln, Edinburgh Guide, 04/03/2015

Though this is not a production without flaws, Scottish Opera’s adaptation of Orfeo is an interesting reinvention of one of opera’s staple classics, and for the marvellous singing alone, it is worth braving the profusion of polka dots.

(*) (*) S.E. Webster, The Public Reviews, 04/03/2015

As lush and colourful as it all is, the visual elements of the production jar with and ultimately thwart the power of the music.

(*) (*) (*) Emma Hay, TVBomb, 05/03/2015