Così fan tutte

You will hear one of the most sophisticated examples of Mozart’s operatic writing, a score that balances intricate ensemble pieces with expressive solo arias. The evening focuses on a tale of romantic testing and the complexities of fidelity, set against music that shifts rapidly between sharp wit and deep sincerity. We suggest you listen for the way the woodwind instruments reflect the changing moods of the characters as their emotional foundations are challenged. In this particular production, the traditional narrative is viewed through a contemporary lens, using digital aesthetics to refresh the visual world of the eighteenth century. The lighting design by Lucy Carter is integral to this approach, using illumination to connect the historic satire with the sleek sensibilities of modern life. The result is a performance that maintains the essential spirit of the composer’s comedy while presenting a sharp, updated visual environment that feels relevant to a current audience.

The Royal Ballet and Opera performs this production at their home in London. Known for maintaining a vast repertoire that spans from the earliest baroque works to contemporary premieres, the company is recognised for its high production values and its core of resident artists. As a premier UK institution, they frequently present reimagined versions of classic repertoire, often collaborating with leading designers to create distinct visual worlds. While this performance features the company’s celebrated house orchestra and chorus, the focus remains on the ensemble cast required to navigate the vocal and theatrical demands of this specific comedy.

This performance takes place at the Royal Opera House in London. As a comedy with a clear, updated aesthetic, it is well-suited if you are visiting the opera for the first time or if you are interested in how digital design interacts with classical music. The production is sung in Italian, and we expect surtitles will be provided above the stage to help you follow the narrative. There is no specific dress code for this venue; most attendees choose smart-casual attire. The running time has not been confirmed, so we recommend allowing a full evening for the experience.