Loosely based on the story of Jason and the Golden Fleece, Francesco Cavalli’s 'Jason' was a runaway hit when it premiered in Venice in 1649, and it proved one of the most popular operas of the seventeenth century.
Like many operas from this period, the story uses classical myth as a starting point. The opera opens after Jason has abandoned his wife, Isiphile, for the sorceress Medea. Cupid, protector of Isiphile, intervenes on her behalf, sending Jason and a motley cast of characters on a rocky journey back to his family in Lemnos.
Cavalli’s dazzling score careens fluidly between humour and pathos, intrigue and adventure. Witty, melodic and entertainingly decadent, this new production is directed by Ted Huffman and stars Hannah Pedley as Medea and Clint Van Der Linde as Jason. The Old Street Band is conducted by Joseph McHardy.
(A new production, sung in English, with a live period orchestra. Running time: two hours 15 minutes.)