Desire burns in the shadows, rage blazes in the light.
Anne Boleyn won the king’s desire first, his love second, but only an heir could deliver his loyalty. In a court full of secrets and spies, the Tudor Queen’s time is running out.
Donizetti’s opera rips the best bits from a bloody time in history to create a thrilling ride through the last days of Anne Boleyn’s marriage to King Henry VIII. Jealous courtiers and scheming royals have the queen caught fast in a tightening trap. And her lady-in-waiting is waiting indeed, consumed with guilt, to take her place on the throne.
With ardent melodies, fiery singing and acrobatic coloratura, every minute of Anna Bolena is a masterclass in bel canto opera. It depends on a stellar soprano to throw herself into the role.
Ermonela Jaho is that singer, “a fiery angel” (The Economist) renowned for offering her heart and soul up on stage. “Don’t even try to resist,” warns the Financial Times. This starry cast includes Ho-Yoon Chung as Lord Percy and Teddy Tahu Rhodes as the ruthless, passionate king.
From the creative team that brought you Aida comes the first of a new trilogy of Donizetti’s Tudor Queen operas. Davide Livermore directs a new production featuring stunning costumes and his signature high-tech sets.
