Ireland's National Touring Opera

Wednesday, 30th May 2012

Company presents Monteverdi's Orfeo at the Theatre royal 9th and 10th June

While Monteverdi may not have invented opera, his Orfeo is unanimously accepted as the first operatic masterpiece. OTC is delighted to welcome back its founding Artistic Director Ben Barnes director of the company's first opera performance, The Turn of The Screw, in 1986 who brings a dynamic new interpretation to the timeless story of Orpheus. Opening in the Theatre Royal, Waterford on Saturday 9th of June with a second performance on Sunday 10th, and the opera will then tour to venues nationwide.

Director of the Theatre Royal since 2006, Barnes' work has been seen in major cities internationally. Former Artistic Director of the Abbey Theatre (2000-2005) Barnes has directed extensively both at home and abroad particularly in the US and Canada. He has served on the board of the Dublin Theatre Festival and was also Chair of the Council of National Cultural Institutions (CNCI).

Orfeo has survived to the present day from its first performance in 1607 not because it is an ancient "curiosity" but because of its musical and dramatic relevance. These qualities have ensured its place in the core repertoire of all truly international opera companies. This is a testament to Monteverdi's innovative score and his protean understanding of human emotions and his expression of them in words and music.

Sung in English, Monteverdi's Orfeo displays raw emotions and a bold dramatic force which has the power to enthrall us now as it did for those in Italy who heard it first, 400 years ago. Waterford woman Libby Seward directs the movement of the piece.

Orfeo is on in the theatre on Saturday 9th June and Sunday 10th June Theatre Royal, Waterford at 8pm. Tickets are €30/ €25 with a 10% discount for 10 or more. On sale through the box office on 051 874402 or online at http://www.theatreroyal.ie