Xerxes/ETO, Royal College of Music - review - Music - Arts

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The Persian king himself is identified with Edward VIII (a qualified pilot) and the military achievement of Handel's scenario (a new bridge joining the shores of the Hellespont) becomes an aerial bombardment. The famous Largo, originally addressed, probably satirically, to a plane tree, is now addressed just to a plane.

It's all good fun, especially in this adapted version of Nicholas Hytner's lively translation for ENO, and skilful too in pointing up the dynamics of the various social and amatory relationships - not least the king's determination to wed a commoner.

Sarah Bacon's designs (lit by Kevin Treacy) are very simple but effective, with occasional use of video to evoke military context or romantic memories. Julia Riley brings vocal authority to the role of Xerxes and the admirable cast also includes Clint van der Linde as Arsamenes and Laura Mitchell as Romilda.

The Old Street Band play without much subtlety and for most of the long first half are driven along at a far too hectic pace by Jonathan Peter Kenny.

Fortunately it all calms down after the interval and several of the numbers are then projected with the expressive breadth they need.

Until October 15, then tours until November 26; 020 7833 2555, englishtouringopera.org.uk

Xerxes/ETO
Royal College of Music
SW7