An exhilarating performance of a new production of The Valkyrie from the Royal Opera House. The second work of Wagner's epic Ring cycle, it follows on from yesterday's broadcast of The Rhinegold.

The conflicts between power and love come to the fore as Wotan faces the consequences of his actions in The Rhinegold. Bryn Terfel plays the lead role of the chief god who has retrieved a magical golden ring from the greedy Alberich, while Lisa Gasteen is his heroic Valkyrie daughter Brunnhilde, the voice of his conscience.

Introduced by Michael Portillo. Parts three and four are scheduled to be shown next year.
(Michael Portillo waxes lyrical: page 37)