The Royal Opera House in London is currently presenting a revival of Richard Jones's 2022 production of Handel's opera, Alcina. Sarah Fahie, the original movement director, has revived the staging, which was first seen in 2022.
The production is noted for its vivid interpretation of the desert-island story, incorporating elements of sorcery and sensuality. Jones's staging portrays the "good guys" as members of a puritan cult, creating a dynamic tension between moral and instinctive worlds.
Lisette Oropesa, who plays the enchantress Alcina, delivered an imperious performance despite an apology made before curtain-up regarding her heavy cold. She was joined by Emily D’Angelo as Ruggiero, Mary Bevan as Morgana, and Ru Charlesworth as Oronte. Newcomers Edward Grint and boy soprano Thomas Mayes also performed, with Beth Taylor's Bradamante particularly noted for bringing moving moments to the production.
The staging features elaborate sets, including a large bed, a greenhouse, and an enchanted forest on wheeled platforms. Alcina's prisoners are transformed into various animals, such as a parrot, a mandrill, and a King Charles spaniel, wearing beautifully made prosthetic heads that have been on display in the Royal Opera House foyer for the past year or two.