Fantastical opera-ballet, in a new scenic version by George Kirsta , presented by Albion Operas Ltd. English words by Edward Agate ; additional text by Olive Moore. London Opera Orchestra (leader, Maurice Linden ) : conductor, Walter Susskind. From a theatre in the South
Introduction : Offenbach presenting his characters
Prologue : Luther's Tavern
Act I : Olympia ; Spalanzani's
Drawing-Room
Here is the ever popular opera Tales of Hoffmann in a new scenic version by George Kirsta. The story, of course, is the same as the original one, but here Offenbach himself appears on the stage, and among various new features a ballet has been introduced into the production in such a way that certain parts of the action are emphasised by the dancing. Furthermore, at the end of the opera there is a new scene, based on an excerpt from La Belle Hélène, which is not, however, being broadcast at present.