Purcell: The Fairy Queen 2009
Jonathan Kent's dazzling 2009 staging of Henry Purcell's *The Fairy Queen* transforms Shakespeare's *A Midsummer Night's Dream* into a vibrant semi-opera bursting with wit, charm, and ingenuity.
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Purcell: The Fairy Queen (2009) about?
This semi-opera reimagines Shakespeare's *A Midsummer Night's Dream* through Henry Purcell's grand 17th-century score, blending spoken dialogue with dazzling musical interludes. The story unfolds in a fantastical forest where fairies, lovers, and mischievous sprites collide, all set to Purcell's radiant compositions.
Who directed Purcell: The Fairy Queen?
Director information is not available.
Who stars in Purcell: The Fairy Queen?
The production features Lucy Crowe, Carolyn Sampson, Ed Lyon, Andrew Foster-Williams, and Desmond Barrit in leading roles.
Is Purcell: The Fairy Queen (2009) worth watching?
With its inventive blend of Shakespearean wit and Purcell's lush baroque music, this 2009 staging is a triumph of creativity and atmosphere. While it lacks an IMDb rating, its theatrical pedigree and Glyndebourne setting make it a standout for opera and Shakespeare enthusiasts alike.
How long is Purcell: The Fairy Queen?
Runtime details are not listed.
About Purcell: The Fairy Queen (2009) — Jonathan Kent's Exuberant Semi-Opera Adaptation
Jonathan Kent's dazzling 2009 staging of Henry Purcell's *The Fairy Queen* transforms Shakespeare's *A Midsummer Night's Dream* into a vibrant semi-opera bursting with wit, charm, and ingenuity. Set within the intimate embrace of Glyndebourne's auditorium, this production strikes a perfect balance between spoken drama and luminous musical performance, creating an atmosphere that feels both timeless and magically immediate. The result is a feast for the senses, where Purcell's soaring compositions weave seamlessly with the play's whimsical narrative, evoking a dreamlike world where laughter, love, and mischief collide with effortless grace.
Starring Lucy Crowe, Carolyn Sampson, and Ed Lyon, this interpretation breathes fresh life into a Baroque classic, blending period authenticity with theatrical flair. The Fairy Queen herself emerges as a figure of playful authority, guiding audiences through a journey of mistaken identities and enchanted forests where every note and gesture feels carefully curated. Purcell: The Fairy Queen (2009) is a celebration of musical storytelling at its most exuberant, ideal for anyone drawn to opera's dramatic depth or Shakespeare's enduring wit.