Handel And Haydn Society To Perform THE FAIRY QUEEN

The Handel and Haydn Society continues its 2017-18 Season with two performances of Henry Purcell's The Fairy Queen on Friday, April 6, 2018 at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, April 8, 2018 at 3:00 p.m. at the New England Conservatory's Jordan Hall. Conducted by Harry Christophers and narrated by Antonia Christophers, Purcell's exquisite music is made vivid and colorful with ingenious dramatic effects and an entertaining script by Jeremy Sams, creator of the Metropolitan Opera's The Enchanted Island. The result is a fresh-and-fun riff on Shakespeare's A Midsummer Night's Dream, as seen through Queen Titania's eyes.

"Purcell is a Harry Christophers' specialty. He brings an inviting, light-hearted and delightfully entertaining touch to this semi-staged performance that is unmatched, creating a union between the conductor, the musicians, and the audience," said H+H President and CEO David Snead. "After an incredible reception at Tanglewood this past summer, we are excited to share this performance with our audience in Boston."

The Fairy Queen is one of Henry Purcell's most impressive creations. Loosely based on Shakespeare's A Midsummer Night's Dream, the opera pulls from the Purcell's genius to blend mystery, love and mischief. The performance will be narrated by Antonia Christophers, a British actress whose performing credits include HBO's Game of Thrones; the BBC drama The Hour; Buxton Opera House and UK tour of The Graduate; and many more.

The production features the renowned British baritone Matthew Brook and countertenor Robin Blaze in a number of comic roles taken from Shakespeare's A Midsummer Night's Dream. Brook has been acclaimed for his performances around the world, including Carnegie Hall, the Kennedy Center, and the Barbican, while Blaze is known for his numerous roles at the English National Opera. Purcell's inventive, kaleidoscopic score includes additional roles performed by leading members of the H+H Chorus.

Tickets for the performances are on sale now. Tickets range from $25 - $102 and may be purchased by calling 617-266-3605, visiting handelandhaydn.org or in person at 9 Harcourt Street in Boston (M-F 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.). Student and group discounts are also available.

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