THE MAGIC FLUTE and KING PRIAM Visit the Marlowe Theatre

The ENGLISH Touring Opera will visit The Marlowe Theatre later this month for the first time in eight years. This most ambitious season is themed around ancient and modern myths, starting with Mozart's final opera, The Magic Flute. Arguably, the world's favourite opera, its wit and charm has enchanted music-lovers of all ages for hundreds of years.

The Magic Flute tells the tale of a terrifying and joyful journey in pursuit of love, wisdom and happiness, with a beautiful score ranging from the show-stopping arias of The Queen Of The Night to jolly folk tunes. ETO is reviving Liam Steel's glamorous production, first performed in 2009, and is sung in full costume with an orchestral accompaniment.

ETO's second offering at The Marlowe Theatre is Michael Tippett's King Priam, a tale of gods and men, character and destiny, set in the world of classical myth in the besieged city of Troy.

A memorable meditation on the role of fatherhood and the futility of war, King Priam is a prime example of British opera at its best. ETO's most ambitious production yet presents a rare chance to see this opera performed live.

James Conway, ETO's General Director, said: "I'm thrilled that ETO are returning to Canterbury after an eight-year absence, and with such an exciting season."

He added: "In King Priam, Michael Tippett creates a crystal-bright world in which each choice of his characters feels immediate. I won't pretend it's easy, but I can't keep quiet about its brilliance! This is a once-in-a-generation experience to see Tippett's work performed live."

The Magic Flute is at The Marlowe Theatre on Tuesday 22 April, and King Priam on Wednesday 23 April, both start at 7.30pm. Tickets are priced from £20.50 to £39.50 (concessions available; booking fee applies). To book, call the Box Office on 01227 787787 or go to marlowetheatre.com.

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