Performed in English (with synchronised Russian supertitles)
World premiere: 17 Jan 1962 Mariinsky Theatre
Premiere of this production: 06 Jun 2012
Running time: 3 hours 15 minutes
A midsummer night's dream completely breaks stereotypes that exist about Britten’s music as somewhat unaccessible to listeners. Instead, it carries a very special charm of the English speech and sparkling Shakespeare's humour. The opera was staged by Claudia Solti in July 2011 and still retains a high public interest. The scenery was designed in a fantasy style and features acrobats, the lighting provides a rich palette of colours, and the costumes are quite versatile.
opera in three acts
Music by Benjamin Britten Libretto by Benjamin Britten and Peter Pears