The first performances of a new opera adapted from The Revenger's Tragedy (1606) will be staged in London and Manchester.
The Masque of Vengeance depicts the violent lust for sex and power in a dystopian, criminal regime—but with sardonic irony.
This 80-minute chamber opera for a cast of nine accompanied by piano duet was specially written to give the impression of a 'grand' opera in a small theatre. There are set pieces of arias and ensembles and the work has the feel of a fast-moving noir as the plots and subplots play out.
Thomas Middleton's play casts a cynical eye over the amorality of powerful dynasties. David Edwards has updated the background to the modern-day greed of powerful corporations.
It will be performed at the Cockpit, Gateforth Street, London November 7–9 and the Stoller Hall, Hunts Bank, Manchester, November 12.