Mid Wales Opera's Dido and Aeneas: A Captivating Staging at Brecon Cathedral

Mid Wales Opera (MWO) presented a compelling staging of Henry Purcell's opera *Dido and Aeneas* at Brecon Cathedral in April 2026. This production, part of their OpenStages initiative, showcased a blend of local talent and community engagement, executed over a single intensive week.

The Guardian

Originally composed in 1689 for the students of Josias Priest’s boarding school, *Dido and Aeneas* is a poignant tale of love and tragedy. The opera's themes resonate deeply, making it a fitting choice for MWO's mission to nurture local talent and engage with the community.

The Guardian

The production was directed by Richard Studer, who also designed the minimalist yet effective set. Conductor Jonathan Lyness led the young cast, which included both seasoned performers and newcomers, ensuring a polished vocal performance. The chorus, composed of local amateurs, portrayed various characters, enhancing the opera's narrative depth.

The Guardian

The staging featured a stark metal structure that framed the action against the cathedral's backdrop. The chorus, dressed in black with distinctive golden cheek patches, contrasted with the regal attire of Queen Dido and Aeneas, who wore elaborate golden adornments. Kathy Macaulay's portrayal of Dido was marked by grace and vulnerability, while Alaw Grug Evans delivered a compelling performance as Belinda, Dido’s chief handmaiden.

The Guardian

The opera's tragic arc unfolded as Dido's reluctance to accept Aeneas's love was thwarted by the malevolent Sorceress. The emotional climax was reached with Dido's final aria, "When I am lain in earth," which encapsulated the opera's tragic essence.

The Guardian

Mid Wales Opera's commitment to community involvement was evident throughout the production. The initiative aims to foster local talent and engage audiences, reflecting a broader mission to make opera accessible and relevant to contemporary audiences.

The Guardian

While the production was well-received, some critics noted the inherent sadness of the opera. The librettist Nahum Tate's decision to retain the tragic ending, as opposed to altering it for a happier conclusion, was highlighted as a significant artistic choice. This decision allowed the opera to maintain its emotional weight, culminating in a poignant silence at the end of the performance.

The Guardian

• “Heartbreaking as it is, it’s nevertheless a mercy to reflect that librettist Nahum Tate – who had given Shakespeare’s King Lear a happy ending – did not meddle here, perhaps at Purcell’s bidding.” — The Guardian

The Guardian

The production of *Dido and Aeneas* by Mid Wales Opera at Brecon Cathedral not only showcased the talents of local performers but also reaffirmed the opera's timeless themes of love and loss. The emotional depth and community spirit present in this staging left a lasting impression on the audience, encapsulated in the hushed silence that followed the final notes.

The Guardian