Details

Set in Moravia in 1900. Jenufa, loved by Laca, has a son by Steva. Steva denies responsibility and is set to marry the mayor's daughter Karolka. Thinking that she would aid a marriage between Laca and Jenufa the sexton, Kostelnicka drowns the baby in the brook and tells Jenufa that it has died. Jenufa and Laca are about to be married as are Steva and Karolka. As the ceremony begins news comes that the body of a baby has been found under the ice. The Kostelnicka steps forward and confesses her guilt. Comforted by Jenufa's forgiveness, she is led away. Jenufa now turns to Laca and gives him his freedom; but he is faithful, and as the curtain falls they pledge their love. Sung in English. Tom Cairns returns to direct his production of Jenufa, which at its first airing in 1995 was notable for its emotional intensity and beautiful, simple staging. Running time 2 hours 45 minutes

Cast/Performers

Giselle Allen (Jenufa), Josephine Barstow (Kostelnicka Buryjovka), Pauline Tinsley (Grandmother Buryjovka), Charlotte Kinder (Karolka), Harrie Van Der Plas (Steva Buryja), Jeffrey Lloyd-Roberts (Laca Klemen), Christopher Purves (Foreman)

Creatives/Company

Music: Janacek
Lyrics: Janacek (after Preissova)
Company: Opera North
Conductor: Elgar Howarth
Director: Tom Cairns
Design: Tom Cairns
Choreographer: Aletta Collins (plus co-director)
Lighting: Wolfgang Gobbel