Story perspectives

Royal Opera Revives Handel's Ariodante with Modern Twist

12/10/2025

Summary

Story summary

The Royal Opera presents a new production of Handel's Ariodante, directed by Jetske Mijnssen, marking the work's first staging since its 1735 premiere.
The production adopts a modern setting with a dysfunctional royal family, challenging the traditional happy ending.
The cast includes countertenor Christophe Dumaux and mezzo-soprano Emily D’Angelo, delivering strong performances.
The music, led by conductor Stefano Montanari, is inventive yet at times overwhelming, hindering the singers' expression.
Overall, the production evokes mixed feelings as it straddles the line between drama and music.

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Story summary

The Royal Opera presents a new production of Handel's Ariodante, directed by Jetske Mijnssen, marking the work's first staging since its 1735 premiere.
The production adopts a modern setting with a dysfunctional royal family, challenging the traditional happy ending.
The cast includes countertenor Christophe Dumaux and mezzo-soprano Emily D’Angelo, delivering strong performances.
The music, led by conductor Stefano Montanari, is inventive yet at times overwhelming, hindering the singers' expression.
Overall, the production evokes mixed feelings as it straddles the line between drama and music.