OPERA
Aci Galatea e Polifemo
"a stylish rethink of Handel"
"This voyage up the Thames is exactly what opera needs"
"wit, passion and elegance"
Composed during a trip to Naples, Aci, Galatea e Polifemo is one of Handel’s most emotive and daring works, an ancient Greek tale which portrays the intensity of young love and how it collides with a world that seeks to control and destroy it, leading to tragic and heartbreaking consequences. Aci by the River followed a tradition from Handel’s time, where performances were preceded by other forms of entertainment.
Critically acclaimed director Jack Furness made his LHF debut, directing a cast of internationally renowned soloists.
To reach the venue, Trinity Buoy Wharf, audiences were invited to travel from Central London by boat along the Thames, featuring live performances en route.
London Handel Festival | 2024
Composer George Frideric Handel
Libretto Nicola Giuvo
Orchestra London Handel Festival Ensemble
Conductor Laurence Cummings
Director Jack Furness
Designer Francis O'Connor
Lighting Designer Emma Chapman
Movement & Intimacy Director Rachel Wise
Associate Music Director Ashok Gupta
Assistant Movement Myron Lodge Birch
Italian Coach Barbara Diana
Stage Manager Joni Carter
Deputy Stage Manager Juliet Hague
Wardrobe Manager Meg Jordan
Production LX Hakan Hafizoglu
Production Manager Davin Patrick
Producer Terri-Jayne Griffin
Cast
Aci
Galatea
Polifemo
Actor
Filmed Body Double
Mary Bevan
Claudia Huckle
Callum Thorpe
Durassie Kiangangu
Corina Clark