Set in Rome in 509 B.C. in world of brutality and inequality, the story tells of the occupying Etruscan prince Tarquinius, a narcissistic and licentious tyrant, who is leading Rome in its war against the Greeks. Exasperated with hearing his general Collatinus, a Roman nobleman, boast of the strong bond and completely pure relationship he has with his beautiful, virtuous wife Lucretia, the jealous prince decides to put her to the ultimate test. Despite its savage subject, Benjamin Britten’s shattering chamber opera contains some of his most sheerly beautiful and passionate music as it explores some of the darkest cravings in the human psyche – and what happens when unbridled power and war give them free rein. Sung in English with English supertitles. For more information, call 214.768.2787. (214-SMU-ARTS)
This production will be performed with the Meadows Opera Orchestra
Directed by Hank Hammett
Conducted by Parisa Zaeri