BEMF Opera | 2009 Chamber Opera Series

Handel’s Acis and Galatea

Saturday, November 28, 2009 at 8pm
New England Conservatory's Jordan Hall

Proclaimed “the highlight of local opera presentations,” the Boston Early Music Festival’s stunning period productions of Baroque operas have become a must-see event for opera lovers from around the world. In its second annual Chamber Opera Series, BEMF presents the original 1718 chamber version of Handel’s beloved pastoral opera Acis and Galatea, led by musical directors Paul O’Dette and Stephen Stubbs, stage director Gilbert Blin, and costume designer Anna Watkins.

The story depicts the love affair between the nymph Galatea and the shepherd Acis, who must endure a long separation. When they are finally reunited, their happiness is dashed by the jealous monster Polyphemus, who is in love with Galatea and kills Acis. As Galatea laments the loss of her lover, she uses her divine powers to transform Acis into an everlasting fountain.

This production was reprised in a 2011 North American tour including performances at the June 2011 Festival.