About the Show

An aging philosopher's pact with the devil leads to youth and love, but at a dire cost.

Disillusioned with old age, the philosopher Faust makes a pact with the devil, Méphistophélès, trading his soul for youth, wealth, and the love of the beautiful Marguerite. As his newfound happiness unravels, the dream of love turns into a nightmare, leading to tragic consequences. This production, directed by David McVicar, draws parallels between Faust and composer Gounod, exploring themes of piety versus worldly success. The sets and costumes pay tribute to 1870s Paris, featuring locations like the Cabaret d'Enfer and Notre-Dame's organ loft. Highlights of Gounod's score include Méphistophélès' 'Le veau d'or', Marguerite's 'Jewel Song', and the Act IV Soldiers' Chorus.

Critic Reviews (4)

“This revival of Faust is a dramatic and beautifully sung production. Wickedly good and sinfully seductive.”
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“David McVicar’s staging retains its theatrical brilliance, but is unevenly sung.”
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"McVicar’s staging still has all the illicit sheen and lure of Marguerite’s jewels. In an era of austerity... this kind of old-school, expensive theatricality... has a renewed appeal, trading off a protracted running time with plenty to look at."
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"For all its mix of panache and musical charms... Faust struggles to hold the attention, not least because of the final act ballet that Gounod added a decade after the 1859 premiere."
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