Details

During the reign of Louis XIII France is actually under the stern control of Cardinal Richelieu. Maria, previously in love with the Count of Chalais, has married the Duke of Chevreuse, who has been imprisoned for taking part in a duel. When Richelieu is suddenly deposed, her husband, released from prison at Chalais's request, makes their union public - Chalais is devastated. Following Richelieu's unexpected return to power, a tense emotional triangle of passionate love and conflicting loyalties develops. The plot inexorably tightens its grip on the characters as time runs out, and the inevitable bloody denouement is delivered with austere brutality. Sung in Italian with English side-titles. This production is generously supported by the Old Hall Hotel and the Buxton Crescent Hotel and Thermal Spa partnership. Running time: 2hrs 20mins

Cast/Performers

Mary Plazas (Maria di Rohan), Mirouslava Yordanova (Armando), John Bellemer (Riccardo), David Kempster (Enrico), Andrew Slater (De Fiesque), Mark Holland (Visconte di Suze)

Creatives/Company

Author: Donizetti
Lyrics: Salvatore Cammarano
Producer: Buxton Festival
Company(s): Northern Chamber Orchestra, Festival Chorus
Director(s): Stephen Medcalf, Charlotte Watson (assistant)
Conductor: Andrew Greenwood
Design: Francis O'Connor
Lighting: John Bishop