Acis and Galatea

G.F. Handel’s English-language opera, Acis and Galatea, was one of his most popular works during his lifetime. It tells the story of the love between Acis, a shepherd, and Galatea, a water nymph. But Polyphemus, a one-eyed giant (i.e. Cyclops), is infatuated with Galatea, and in a fit of rage hurls a rock at Acis and kills him. Galatea then transforms Acis into a stream.

Traditionally set in a rural paradise with a chorus of nymphs and shepherds, Robert Tucker’s innovative direction sees the choir performing this role while supporting visiting soloists Chris McRae and Georgia Jamieson Emms, and Marlborough’s own Spencer Kingi, as they enact the high drama of the story. With lovely music and beautiful singing, this is an afternoon not to be missed!