High energy with Gluck ORFEO

As part of their Orpheus-season, Opera North performed a very well received semi-concert version of Glucks “Orfeo”, starring Alice Coote/Polly Leech, Fflur Wyn and Daisy Brown, as well as the fabulous chorus and orchestra of Opera North.

“Drama was dominant in Antony Hermus’ reading of the entire score. Opera North’s principal guest conductor had something to say about this music: it’s not a slightly insipid precursor to Mozart but something that was striking and moving when first heard – a bit like Handel on steroids. Orchestral articulation was impactful, delicate when required, and the instrumental colours clear. (The echo effects in “Chiamo il mio ben così” were really subtle and almost realistic).” The Artsdesk

“Antony Hermus conducted with sure grasp of the opera's dramatic pacing.” Classical Music Daily

“The ever-buoyant Antony Hermus gets fine playing from his orchestra and the chorus make their mark lamenting, confronting, welcoming and (especially) rejoicing – in the 18th century tradition, all ends happily!” The Reviews Hub

“Gluck composed some of his most spectacular arias for the fateful couple, including Orfeo’s heart-rendering cry for his lost wife ‘Che farò senza Euridice’ and Opera North’s brilliant principal guest conductor, Antony Hermus, along with Polly Leech (Orfeo – Alice Coote will be performing as Orfeo for the remainder of the Leeds tour), does it more than justice. Indeed, this is true of each and every score of the whole opera.” My TheatreMates