Orphèe aux Enfers - Opera in the Open

Orphée aux Enfers (Orpheus in the Underworld) is a comic opera by Jacques Offenbach, first performed in 1858. A satirical adaptation of the Greek myth of Orpheus and Eurydice, it turns the traditional story on its head: rather than being devoted lovers, Orphée and Eurydice can barely tolerate one another. When Eurydice is carried off to the Underworld by Pluto, Orphée is delighted to be rid of her until he is compelled by the character of Public Opinion to attempt a rescue. What follows is a lively and irreverent comedy featuring quarrelling gods, romantic intrigues and the famous Galop Infernal—better known today as the can-can. The opera ends not in tragedy but in comic fashion, with Eurydice gaining her freedom and escaping a return to her unhappy marriage.

August 20th - Orphée Aux Enfers: Orpheus in the Underworld (Jacques Offenbach)

Orphée: Edward Finnegan

Euridice: Ciara Smith

Pluto: To Be Confirmed

Jupiter: Brendan Collins

Public Opinion: Jasmin O’Reilly

Diane/Cupid: Sorcha O’Regan

Mercury: David O’Carroll

Director: Mary MacDonagh

Musical Director: David Wray