About the Show

Handel’s surrealist romcom returns, directed by Christopher Alden and conducted by Christian Curnyn.

In Handel’s Partenope, romantic confusion reigns in the court of the alluring Neapolitan queen. Three suitors—Arsace, Armindo, and Emilio—vie for Partenope’s affection, unaware that one of them is not who they appear to be. Set against a backdrop of flirtation, mistaken identity, and political rivalry, this opera blends baroque elegance with sharp comedic twists.

Returning to the ENO stage in Christopher Alden’s Olivier Award-winning production, the staging reimagines the story within a 1920s Parisian salon, paying homage to surrealist artists like Salvador Dalí and Man Ray. Emilio’s character is notably inspired by Man Ray himself, enhancing the thematic play on identity and perception.

The creative team includes set designer Andrew Lieberman, costume designer Jon Morrell, and lighting designer Adam Silverman. This co-production with Opera Australia marks the second revival of Alden’s celebrated interpretation.

Critic Reviews (4)

"It’s a remarkable achievement to make an opera from nearly 300 years ago look and sound so fun, fresh and contemporary."
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"As sung and played by a superbly committed cast of six, there’s chirpy ludicrousness and silliness aplenty, but it’s almost all veneer and at the expense of anything deeper."
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"Alden’s stage creativity means you don’t have to keep close track of who is who, or why they do what they do, to respond to – and to care about – Partenope’s edgy and erotic modernity."
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"Best of all possible casts fill every moment of Christopher Alden’s Handel cornucopia"
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