Eugene Onegin is a powerful, nostalgic opera about youth, and the effect of youthful decisions and feelings. First love, lost love, jealousy and regret are all there – there is no opera more tender, more essential.
Exceptional young artists Sarah-Jane Davies, Nicholas Lester, Jaewoo Kim and Niamh Kelly play the quartet of young lovers, with Frances McCafferty watching their passions, and their mistakes.
ETO’s production was acclaimed in 2007, the Guardian’s critic stating that it “sheds more light on Tchaikovsky’s masterpiece than any recent UK production”. Joanna Parker and Guy Hoare’s period designs embody the poetry of Pushkin, from autumnal orchards to proud ballrooms. Conductor Michael Rosewell brings out each emotional nuance of the rich, romantic score, reflected in James Conway’s detailed production.
With its heartfelt arias and ensembles, its splendid choruses and ballroom scenes, and Tchaikovsky’s gift for melody, rich orchestration and drama, Eugene Onegin is a night at the opera for romantics of all ages.
2007 ETO revival, sung in English