A relatively rare opportunity to hear one of the greatest operas ever written. Handel’s Semele was written at the height of his powers (two years after “Messiah” and “Samson”) and is undoubtedly one of his most glorious scores. Originally given as an oratorio, at a time when opera had fallen out of fashion in London, the work is superbly dramatic and has been staged most successfully a number of times in recent years. The exquisite libretto by William Congreve tells the story of Jupiter’s passion for a beautiful mortal, Semele, and the terrible revenge wreaked by Juno, his jealous wife. Musical highlights include Jupiter’s unforgettable “Where’er you walk”, Semele’s exuberant aria “Endless pleasure” and the wonderful music for Somnus the god of Sleep. Our performance features a cast of brilliantly talented young singers and the opera will be staged by Katherine Bond whose productions of Cosi fan Tutte and Le Nozze di Figaro have been highlights of previous festivals.

Tickets: £25, £20

Sponsored by Mr & Mrs D. J. Burrell and South Bucks Choral Society