'Venus & Adonis' Opera By J. Blow

VENUS & ADONIS, the first English opera, is a musical enchantment. More than just a pastoral, this little-known gem of an opera comments on the sexual intrigue of the 1680's court of Charles II. Cupid strikes desire into the hearts of mankind while Venus controls the fullfilment of erotic love.

These themes were particularly topical for the time and freely discussed, so much so that the role of Venus was originally played by Charles II's ex-mistress and Cupid by their illegitimate daughter.

Maria-Lisa Geyer's production relishes the opera's classical allegory, particularly the Adonis myth with its embodiment of the cyclical nature of the seasons. Ad Parnassum brings out the playful, erotic and pathetic nature of the opera, reflecting our own relationships to youth, love, desire and decay.

Ad Parnassum is thrilled once again to have the musical support of L'Offerta Musicale di Venezia, expertly prepared by Riccardo Parravicini, one of Venice's most important conductors.

*****
‘This was the Bristol debut of an exciting new music-theatre group, Ad Parnassum, with their orchestra, L'Offerta Musicale. If they keep up this standard, they should go on to great things.’ Bristol Post (on 'Dido & Aeneas')

‘The orchestra, five strings and harpsichord, and directed by Riccardo Parravicini, provided a deliciously dark accompaniment. It revelled in Purcell's dotted rhythms, and it all added up to a thoroughly stylish performance’. Bristol Post (on 'Dido & Aeneas')


***Who are we? ***
AD PARNASSUM aspires to the art of the Muses. We believe in creating imaginative and artistic productions on small budgets while always respecting the essence of the original works from which we create.