Adriana Mater

We are introduced to the late Kaija Saariaho’s sonic world through this UK premiere, where the composer’s signature shimmering textures meet a libretto by Amin Maalouf. You will hear how the score translates the harsh realities of conflict into a layered, modern soundscape. This production uses a translation by Aleksi Barrière, presenting the work in English for the first time in this country. The music is not structured around traditional arias, but rather moves in fluid waves that mirror the psychological states of the characters. As you listen, pay attention to the way Saariaho uses the orchestra to create a sense of vast, open space, contrasting with the intimate and often painful vocal lines. The work explores the weight of the past and the possibilities of the future through two generations of women. The evening is shaped by these intense emotional arcs, underpinned by a score that feels both delicate and incredibly dense, requiring careful attention to the subtle shifts in harmony and timbre.

The English National Opera brings this production to their home at the London Coliseum, continuing their history of presenting major contemporary works in English. Conductor André de Ridder leads the ensemble, bringing his significant experience with modern scores to the podium. The cast includes mezzo-soprano Kristina Stanek and tenor Caspar Singh, appearing alongside baritone Leigh Melrose and soprano Lauren Fagan. These soloists are recognised for their skill in navigating the complex demands of twenty-first-century vocal writing. The company is known for its large-scale productions and its commitment to making opera accessible through native-language performances.

The performance takes place at the London Coliseum in the heart of the city. With a total running time of approximately 150 minutes, it is a substantial evening of music, though the use of an English translation makes the plot easy to follow for newcomers to contemporary opera. As this is a performance by the English National Opera, the dress code is generally informal; you will see people in both casual and smart attire. There is no specific dress convention required. The venue is one of the largest in London, providing ample space for Saariaho’s expansive orchestral requirements.